Police have confirmed the death of a 79-year-old woman in Rakiraki, who neighbors claim set herself on fire at her home on Monday. The elderly woman was living alone in Caulasi when neighbors discovered her collapsed on a burning pile of rubbish. They quickly rushed her to the hospital, but she later succumbed to her injuries.
Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro stated that the confirmation of the woman’s death was due to burns. Assistant Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, expressed concern over the increasing number of older adults facing loneliness and depression, particularly as younger generations move abroad, leaving their elders behind.
Kiran urged community networks and faith groups to reach out to older individuals in their neighborhoods who may lack support, emphasizing the importance of engaging them to foster a sense of inclusion and purpose in society. She highlighted that everyone can contribute to suicide prevention efforts, encouraging individuals to assist those who appear lonely.
Earlier this year, Kiran reported that 16 elderly individuals had taken their own lives between January and June.