Muddy political gatekeeping in Fiji.

Fiji Nurses strike ends after getting most of what they demanded from the old farts in civil service. Arresting their union leaders, will further ignite union passions.

Fiji Police, do you really want to play with the Hornet's nest in Fiji's current volatile atmosphere?

Qarase's Government cronies often sing praises of their own work. Liberally applying the race card in Politics and using rose-coloured glasses to prove his point.
Pulling the wool over the rural voter's eyes will NOT work this time, because voters in Fiji are extremely wary of lip-service and muddy rhetoric in politics. Voters are aware of this double standards. Qarase will fall miserably, like Rabuka!

Member of Parliament raises an important issue of the confused state of dualism in Fiji.

Fiji Government is pussy-footing around the concept of forming Fiji's own identity and in the process created an atmosphere of mis-direction and ingrained the colonial mentality of 'entitlement'. This over-reliance on foreign powers has formed a dependency mentality through out Fiji.
Thus the end result in all this; is a pathetic, top-heavy civil service which is riddled with bureaucracy, cronyism and corruption to the nth degree.

Selected letters to Fiji Times Editor Tues August 9th 2005.

Fijian coalition

SITIVENI Rabuka (F/T 8/8) should not talk about a coalition government between Fijian leaders given the pathetic performance of the SVT in the last General Election. The government should not be easily manipulated by these small fly-by-night Fijian political parties intending to contest the next election. Their only means of survival is a coalition.

Esala Nakalevu
Lautoka

Dirty game

In his thoughtful letter Tawake Kolinisau (FT 2/8) drew our attention to President Josefa Iloilo's speech wherein he reminded the chiefs (at GCC meeting) that they are looked upon not only as chiefs of the Fijian people but by all of Fiji.

In another letter Sam Loanakadavu (FT 2/8) informs us "Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase is a nationalist looking after the interests of indigenous people". I suppose the Prime Minister can be excused for doing that because he is commoner, not a chief.

Only the chiefs are meant to be above politics, particularly of the ethno-nationalistic variety, whereas (Qarase and his political fellow travelers must shave the latitude to "play politics". The danger is, sometimes the game can get dirty, very dirty, like it did for example in Sr Lanky.

Anjali Devi
Nasinu

Political debate

Whenever political comments are made in regards to land, the Great Council of Chiefs and other important national issues Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase has a habit of blaming the person as being disrespectful and insensitive to the feelings of the indigenous community or having no respect for the chiefs.

These kinds of comments do not allow healthy debates to progress for national development like we see in other countries.

The PM talks about indigenous rights but has nothing to show as the plight of ordinary Fijians has declined since he became PM. Times have changed. People will no longer be fooled and they will wake up to the truth.

Let us see an honest and transparent debate on national development, economy, poverty alleviation, land, health and education leading to the 2006 General Election.

No more of that racial politics.

Amand Chand
Brisbane
Australia

Racist PM

I READ in this newspaper that the PM had defended himself by saying he is not a racist.

May I ask the PM if he is not a racist, then why were Indian and other communities not informed of the racist Bill that he and Bale have done for the church leaders, provincial councils and the GCC?

He has always been racist and his blueprint for the indigenous community clearly outlines this. I think the New Alliance Party is the best party to take the nation forward.

I humbly plead to this great nation to show their unity by voting the SDL out in the coming elections. As far as Mr Chaudhry and Labour are concerned I think they will have excellent results.

If the New Alliance, Labour and a couple more like Mick Beddoes and James Raman can come under some arrangement, then there is no chance for the current evils to return.

Ivon Prasad
Suva

Silent critics

I HAVE to admit I enjoy Ravuama Vere's opinion's very much (FT 2/8).

Such ultra-nationalism and virulent abhorrence of people of other races reminds me of Dr Joseph Goebbels, the Nazi propaganda minister under Adolf Hitler. Goebbels was known for his perfection of the so-called argumentum ad nauseam (big-lie) technique of mass propaganda.

This is the technique of repeating a lie as many times as possible until it is taken to be the truth. For the past 18 years we have been hearing that whatever actions have been taken against elected governments have been to further the cause of indigenous Fijians.

Here's a litmus test to prove how it's working. If you are an ordinary Fijian with no connections to the gravy train, ask yourself how better your life is now than it was 18 years ago. If you say that you are now living a life of excesses beyond your wildest imagination, then I would say the coups were worth it.

A system where individuals are not allowed to think for themselves and centralised and often belligerent nationalists make decisions, is nothing short of fascism. We may not realise it now but one of these days it's going to hit us like a ton of bricks.

At present the acts are politically-motivated because the focal point is the fear of Indian domination. Twenty years from now, the focal point will be the fear of some provincial domination.

So why look for short term fixes when one knows that the problem will re-emerge in a different form down the road. In the interim all we will be doing is rearranging the prejudices in our minds until the new fear takes hold and once again we are thrown into chaos.

As for the Indians wanting to call themselves Fijians, I don't think we have a choice. Like Vijay Singh, every Indian from Fiji is referred to as a Fijian outside of Fiji.

Praneet Singh
Sacramento
CA 95838

Muddy political grandstanding in Fiji.

Fiji Nurses strike has created a political disaster for Qarase and his cronies. Fiji's industrial relations will now follow a crititcal path determined by Murphy's Law.

"Whatever may go wrong, will go wrong".

Rabuka is still living in his dreams and just wishes that he was in contention for 2006 elections. Get a life, Siti and stop political grandstanding! His idea of a Fijian coalition can face the pressure test at the new Naboro trash complex. Using their hydraulic presses to compress this concept into obscure atoms.
Fiji Foreign Minister would do himself and Fiji justice by concentrating on the negativity surrounding the Fiji Nurses strike.
The reform proposed by Fiji's public service chairman has to be accelerated by 200% to hold off the in-direct effects of the Fiji nurses strike and the perpetual corruption and mismanagement. Furthermore, having these white-collar experts talk about reform yet neglect their basic duty of management underlines the hypocrisy in Fiji style of governance.
Fiji's Finance Minister enjoys inflating the horrible performance of Fiji's balance sheet, Often ignoring the internal conflicts like poor industrial relations, high inflation and skilled migration that will release shockwaves of reality to these old farts in power.

There is little political urgency to tackle industrial conflicts in Fiji and that will be the dagger to the heart of Qarase's future.

The agricultural industry in Fiji has not contributed enough consistently to Fiji's economy simply because of the priority and lack of oversight by Fiji Government.
This lady is a class act by blazing the Event Management trail for other Fijians. Can I hear some acknowledgement by the Great Council of Chiefs and Fijian Affairs Board, who are more interested in navel gazing then following the aspirations of Taukei commoners.

Hyper-Ignorance in Qarase's circle.

National Alliance Party president begins his campaign and already sounds like a knowledgable statesman. It is time for a new paradigm in Fiji politics. A new horizon of opportunities for all and a cohesive future for the new generation who do not suscribe to racial innuendos.

Qarase's comments, try to divert blame of the Nurse strike to Political parties, has been criticized by his political counterpart from Fiij Labour Party. The R.T.U Bill and the Strike has created a perfect storm of unending problems for S.D.L/C.A.M.V coalition and their political aspirations. Don't let the door hit you, on your way out Qarase and cohorts!

Fiji Police investigations into the legality of the Nurses strike is an exercise in futility and demonstrates to the Fiji public and others that Striking is considered a higher priority than the coup investigations. Double Standards again in Fiji Public Service.

Fiji as beautiful as it is, needs moments of Political ugliness to bring the country back onto the highway of progress leading to the Utopian city of Prosperity.

Perpetual cycle of Mis-representations & Inaccuracies in Fiji Politics.

Qarase seems to be cooking the books as well as the Laws. Mssr Qarase your pathetic decision making is the cause for the sluggish performance of Fiji's economy and the corruption in Public Service. Qarase, you think the R.T.U Bill will improve matters?

Politics has nothing to do with culture, Qarase. You and your racial rhetoric will eventually accelerate your demise because the people of Fiji are sick and tired of this racial mudslinging.

Get real and stop holding Fiji captive to cultural conflict. If you can't operate out of that muddy trench, Do Fiji a favour and get ready for for civilian life, buster!


Fiji's natural beauty is not going down that slippery slope of hatred.

It is a fact that S.D.L/C.A.M.V's political future hinges on the R.T.U Bill controversy. However, the basic skill in democracy called dialogue and transparency was not followed to the letter by them. So the unintended consequences raised by Fiji's Foreign Affairs Minister will be the norm for Fiji, if these Politicians think they can patronize Fiji citizens rights with lip-service.

The mis-information spewed from S.D.L/C.A.M.V coalition only concludes that they are not worthy of another term. Qarases is quite quick to villify his political counterpart's comments as disrespectful. Too bad!Then stay out of Politics Qarase if you don't like people taking potshots at your poor decisions. Unfortunately taking responsability for their actions was taught to Qarase or any of his S.D.L/C.A.M.V coalition by Fiji's crooked Attorney General, Mssr Qoroniasi Bale.

Fiji Military has gives Qarase's race card a kick in the butt!
Fiji Prison's P.R has been rebutted by a former inmate with much experience within the system. Good job, Tupou! As I recall this particular individual successfully defended a case brought up by Fiji's Director of Public Presecutions who hired a Queens Counsel Barrister ( Lawyers with a bad case of Elitism!)

More letters to Fiji Times Editor of Sat. Aug 6th 2005.

Fiji's hidden beauty is trashed by petty racial based Politics.

The nurses strike has placed alot of pressure on Fiji Government. Unfortunately Government officials did bring the strike on themselves with a confrontational attitude. The mismanagement of Fiji's Health ministry by excessive abuses and structural in-efficiencies are not changing overnight. Even though Fiji Government press releases say that they are just improving infrastructure. Maybe improving the wage scale should have been their focus.

Provincial development should have been done 20 years ago. Fiji is playing catch up in basic services due to the over focus on racial disputes than concetrating on progress for all. The world is not going to wait for you Fiji Government. Get your shit together!

Land issues along with industrial conflicts will hurt Fiji's image in the world. Respect for law and the independence of Fiji's judiciary is the key to luring investors says Justice Cliford Wallace of California.

The concept of involving community in decision-making follows my sentiments of decentralizing decisions in rural development.

Removing monopolies in Fiji can only bring benefits.

Muddy fields of Deception.

The Police are getting suspicious at the Military. This is the fortress mentality that has rippled across Fiji by the R.T.U Bill.

These recycled Politicians have a serious deficit in legal understanding and knowledge. His views are just baseless rumblings from someone who is opposed to change.



Scams will increase due to the absence of real checks and balances in Fiji. 50% poverty levels in Fiji is a real shocker. The truth hurts because of the no minimum wage levels and the high taxes in Fiji.

Slow 'breeze of change' in Fiji Politics.

Some Fijian Landowners are renewing expiring landleases which is good. I believe N.L.T.B is trying to get some tennants evicted.
S.D.L Party Ministers are NOT carrying on for the 2006 elections. Seems like they are suffering from self-induced cavitation.

Strike action by the Nurse union is a looming threat for Qarase's government. The union which is largely Fijian dominatedsignals the political vote it can harness t it's cause and can damage main stream parties like S.D.L and S.V.T in the upcoming elections. Political bickering in Fiji's Parliament is the mud which public affairs get stuck in. Comments from another political HAS-BEEN show the depths of these old farts who just love the limelight but can't produce the goods. Fiji does not need them.

S.D.L Party director should be flogged for this stupid comment. Mssr Baba demonstrates his disregard for the monololistic principles that
is the foundation for all legal systems. So that abuses like misappropriating funds can proceed without punishment. That case is only the tip of the ice-berg. To fathom
the entire cancer of corruption in Fiji, requires "whistle-blower" laws.

Inspiring words of wisom from Auckland University of Technology Alumini frontman for Fijian students. Steps to revive Fijian literature is a new horizon for Fiji. I hope it does not rule out political ramblings.
Sports scholarships and other forms of that is the kind of criteria that Fijian Affairs Board should start exercising. As always they take the lead from the rear.

This idea of tranparent public affairs should be applied in the Prime Ministers office in Fiji.
The idea of referendum will be th ultimate gauge of support for the Bill.

I raised earlier to a Letter to the Fiji Times Editor, that all Bills to be approved via referendum during the elections. The incoming Government just actions the results of the decision.
Qarase's comments saying the Fiji constitution did not allow this is a load of Bullocks, as the Brits would say. He defends the 97 constittion when it favors his cirmcumstances and advocates amending it, most of the time. So what is it Mister Prime Minister? That same tenants in the 97 constitution is being eroded by this R.T.U Bill.

Great Council of Chiefs will be judged by History say United People's Pary President Mick Beddoes. I have already begun. History begins the second after the action has been done.

More selected letters to the Editor of the Fijian Times. Weds Aug 3rd 2005 edition.

Grand coalition

THE move to unite Fijians to contest the 2006 general elections should be applauded but I have one reservation � unity should not be at the cost of democracy.
Uniting Fijians for the sake of retaining power behind a platform that is bankrupt of new ideas does not, in my humble view, augur well for the future.

Manasa Ragani,
Suva

Private army

CAN the Minister for Information, Marieta Rigamoto, tell us if Vilikesa Raqio met with Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase and Minister for Home Affairs Josefa Vosanibola regarding his plan to set up a private army to look after the Government.

If the meeting took place, can Ms Rigamoto justify why Mr Raqio was entertained by the Prime Minister and the Home Affairs minister when the Government was not interested in a private army?

Amand Chand
Brisbane Australia

Tourist rip-off

WHILE travelling to the western side last weekend, I had the chance to talk to a couple of tourists from Melbourne here for the holidays.

They were sharing their grievances over the discrimination they experienced with bus operators on the Queen's Highway. Travelling with a restricted budget, the two visitors caught a Sunbeam bus from Nadi airport to the Outrigger Reef Resort on the Coral Coast.

The bus checker charged them $F11 each. On their return trip, they caught a Sunset bus and were charged $F12 for both of them ($F6 each).

They were surprised and said that locals should not treat tourists differently. Little issues such as overcharging tourists can tarnish the image of the tourism industry.

It could also hinder tourism development in the country.

Epeli Drau
Suva

Puppet on a string

THE Fijian people have spoken. The Great Council of Chiefs, provinces and the Methodist church support the Unity Bill.

The Prime Minister is happy because he has the support to implement restorative measures in order to solve issues emanating from the 2000 coup. It has been argued that putting people involved in the 2000 coups behind bars will not solve the issues we face.

The two major issues are that the Fijian people do not want a non-Fijian leading the nation and Fijian land and fishing rights are being threatened. The present situation is a wake-up call for non-Fijian political parties.

Even if they have a Fijian leader, he will always be viewed as a "puppet on a string". The interests of the Fijian people will always be paramount. It had been the dream of the late Sakeasi Butadroka's � minus the boat ride back to the motherland.

Save Vaka
Tailevu

Unity defined

TRAVELLING on a bus from Nadi to Suva this week, I was touched to see a Fijian woman holding an Indian child on her lap.

The child and her parents could not get a seat on the bus when they got on. The Fijian lady offered to hold the child because her parents had to stand. I say, that was a perfect example of racial harmony and unity.

It is here with us, even without a Unity Bill. So we do not need a Unity Bill?

Jyotishma Naicker
Nadi

Turn of events

The media and people are gloating at the turn of events the passage of the Unity Bill has taken.

They relish the intrigue it holds on the edge of their seats as if they are watching a tight rugby match. But this is not a rugby match but a political spectacle with far-reaching consequences for everyone.

We should not lose sight of the fact that just because the SDL party, provincial councils and the GCC endorsed the Bill does not mean that something which was wrong is right.

One should see the endorsement as a reflection of the incapacity of Fijian leaders to learn from their mistake. It is a sad reflection of the Fijian psyche � stuck in a time-warp and slow to adapt to reality.

A fellow Fijian observed that even if our colonial masters had not molly-coddled Fijians and exposed them to the rigours of cane plantations, our incapacity to learn from our mistake and frogleap over time would see Fijians where we are now � lagging behind our brothers of Indian extract.

One should not forget that the GCC, Methodist church and provincial councils supported Speight in 2000 and the army was alone. We have come to acknowledge that the army saved the day then.

Yet it seems we are slowly but surely, as if in a trance, once again drawn into the dance of death. It is time a re-evaluation of the usefulness of the GCC is done since it cannot provide the decisive leadership in Fiji's hour of need.

They faltered twice and Fiji should not wait a third time before decisiveness is exercised. In the cold light of modern day reality and economics, if someone or a unit cannot justify their position or the value they bring to the organisation, then the post is made redundant.

Why should it be any different for the GCC? Why should the country be obliged to sustain a group which is a defacto lobby group for a small militant section of the community ?

The re-evaluation needs to be done, if not in the next election, then the one after that. Their date with the bean counters should be a matter of when, not if.

Mareko Vuli
Sydney

Cuckoo's nest

I READ many letters from Anjali Devi which were constructive.

However, a vindictive style has emerged and it is probably a result of the Unity Bill unfolding unfavourably from Mr Devi's perception.

First, he was rude, likening some provincial council delegates to the idiot from the film One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest starring Jack Nicholson.

He provides a shallow analogy of Fijians and sheep being the reason for the 2000 upheaval. While no right thinking citizen condones unlawful action, his sheep analogy provides an insight to his true colour and mentality.

Mr Devi obviously never played rugby and was never caught under a ruck.

The carefree, generous spirit of Fijians is unique and coupled with his courage, will move mountains and put his life on the line for any friend if required.

Mr Devi does not understand this. Contrary to his belief, not all Fijians have Joe's brain and not all Devis have Einstein's IQ. Knowledge empowers but ignorance is dangerous.

Mr Devi's ignorance of his indigenous brothers' culture and psyche is generally interpreted as a display of rudeness and arrogance.

All the Devis out there, if you truly call Fiji home and desire real and positive changes, you should make an effort to know your indigenous brothers and sisters.

Most have spoken out through their provincial councils and chiefs. Do not make the same mistake of waving a red rag in front of a bull. Please exercise restraint, have some courtesy and listen to them.

Peni Toga
Nadi

Illegal strike

I REFER to the letter (FT 1/8) by some hotel workers in Nadi regarding the strike by the National Union of Hospitality, Catering and Tourism employees.

On the outset, I must stress strike action is allowed as the legitimate expression of the union and workers in the process of collective bargaining or negotiation over grievances.

A classic example is the strike by Tropik Wood workers which went for three weeks before a settlement was reached at the intervention of my ministry.

In the hotel workers strike, the union conducted the necessary strike ballot but did not give the required 28 days strike notice because union executives were not aware the hotel industry was now classed as an essential service.

Their grievances have been referred to the Permanent Arbitrator who will rule on it. If the workers feel they have not been paid enough, there are procedures to follow such as lodging a dispute with the Labour Ministry.

My ministry does not take sides in a dispute but will try to facilitate a settlement.
We do not employ dirty tactics as suggested in the letter. When one asks for 10 per cent or 50 per cent pay increase one must remember one can't kill the goose that lays the golden egg.

I agree that workers should not be exploited by employers and that is why we have unions and a wages council to monitor pay increase and see that all workers receive just wages.

While the worker's right to strike is intact in the country, it must be noted that rights come with responsibility and we call on workers and unions to exercise them accordingly.

Kenneth Zinck
Minister for Labour Industrial Relations and Productivity

Application of the Law of Unitended Conseqeunces in Fiji Politics.

The President is just clearing way for Parliament debates. He does not have any Veto powers which is a shame for all the money that goes in to support the office of President. The proposed grand Fijian coalition planned for 2006 electionsis doomed comments Senator and Chief.

The passage of this R.T.U Bill has followed the 'Law of Unintended Consequences' for S.D.L/C.A.M.V coalition.

G.C.C's quick deliberation of the Bill's merits signify that a pre-meditated consensus was in the works. The political stability of Fiji
is directly proportional to mutal trust. It mirrors a bumper sticker I saw today.

"No Justice, No Peace. Know Justice, Know Peace!"

Jesus Christ Apolostic Church General Secretary says R.T.U Bill tests the bedrock principles of the Christian church. Other political parties are now building momentum against colonialstic racial electoral provisions, which seriously needs to go for the sake of Fiji's future as I keep reiterating on this blog.
The President is pressuring Politicians for arapid amicable solution to the land problems in Fiji. Albeit out of the Political wrangling process.

People are sick and tired of this lip-service by Government officials in combating corruption and cronyism. The Public Service has always had it's own snail's pace of completing crucial work. They say the wheels of Justice grind slowly. Well in Fiji-time, the pace is a hundred times slower and under funded to a factor of 30 percent less, than counterparts in Commonwealth nations of the same population base. In fact this plan has been 10 years in the making but forever obstructed by powers that be, in Fiji.

More letters to the Fiji times Editor of August 2nd edition.

Prison condition

IT is with disappointment that I hear the Government does not have the funds to improve prison conditions, especially at Korovou Prison.

Having visited that prison several times, I can testify to the terrible conditions that convicted and remand prisoners face. But I am continually baffled as to why successive governments have done little to improve the facilities.

The Government, for example, had no trouble giving $100,000 to our rugby sevens heroes.

The Government had little qualms about throwing another $1million into that bottomless pit called the Fiji Rugby Union. Yet it seems to have great difficulty providing, among other things, basic toilet and bathing facilities at Korovou prison.

Lack of funds? It has got to be joking.

Bhujpendra Solanki
Nasinu

Indonesia rice

I REFER to the comments by the Agriculture Ministry chief executive Luke Ratuvuki (FT 30/7) on Dreketi rice farmers.

Mr Ratuvuki may not be aware that Indonesia and Fiji are members of the World Trade Organisation. Indonesia is a signatory to the International Plant Protection Convention.

One of the important principles of the WTO sanitary and phytosanitary agreement and the IPPC is transparency. The requirement relates to clearly informing countries of specific quarantine measures taken, pest status and other relevant information.

The WTO agreement allows governments to protect plant resources from harmful pests while ensuring the measures are technically justified.

The most important question is whether there was any scientific justification in the action taken by the Agriculture ministry when they destroyed the rice.

Mr Ratuvuki said one of the three rice varieties from Indonesia was weak and could not adapt to the climate in Fiji but under WTO SPS agreement, it was not a good reason to take a drastic action such as destruction.

How will Mr Ratuvuki justify his wrong phytosanitary action to the Indonesian authorities?

Why is Mr Ratuvuki blaming the rice farmers now? The Indonesian rice seeds were supplied by Mr Ratuvuki's ministry officials. The farmers worked hard to grow the rice, only for the ministry staff to come along, burn and destroy the rice without a sound scientific reason.

If Mr Ratuvuki can justify his actions he has nothing to fear about the assistance provided by the Indonesian government and diplomatic relations. As the crops were destroyed on a government directive, Cabinet should consider compensation for the farmers.

If Cabinet concludes that the crop should not have been destroyed, the Agriculture ministry chief executive must be surcharged to compensate the farmers.

Amand Chand
Brisbane

Costly homes

THE Housing Authority of Fiji can no longer achieve the purpose it

was set up for � provide affordable housing to low income earners at a low and reasonable price. Low income earners have preferred to reside in squatter settlements because they cannot afford to pay the high interest charged by the authority which is a rip-off.

The Government failed to understand that more people will continue to live in squatter settlements unless the authority reduces the high interest rates it charges its clients.

In some cases, clients (who earn an annual income of $9000) are required to pay $400 a month.

The authority has opened its market to people earning an annual salary of $50,000 to $100,000. The institution for some time had been exploiting the poor people.

We saw nearly everyday the names of low-income earners being published in the media because they were not able to pay their debt and their house was under mortgage.

Low income earners will never own a home with Housing Authority unless it reduces the high interest rate.

Epeli Batikawai
Rakiraki

Own view

WE learn (FT 26/7) that Ropate Qalo is head of the School of Social and Economic Development at the University of the South Pacific and the views he expressed in the article were his own.

I share his views on this subject. I am not surprised that all the 14 provincial councils support the State's proposed Bill.

If today the State were to propose that the earth is flat, many in our midst would believe it.

Need we say more?

Anjali Devi
Nasinu

Confused opposition

PEOPLE against the Unity Bill have not read or understood it. Either that or they have something to hide. I have read the Bill and I think it's a good thing for Fiji.

People who where wronged in 2000 and 2001 will see the justice they prayed for. The amnesty part is great because it will allow the truth to come out.

What Mr Bainimarama stated (FT 30/7) shows he does not understand the Bill or is scared of it because it will reveal the truth.

In section 8 of the Bill, it states: The functions of the victims and reparation committee is to inquire into applications referred by the commission from a person claiming to be a victim of any violation of human rights and from any victim seeking reparation.

It seems people are against the Bill because they feel it is not just or they have not read it and do not understand it. The amnesty section is not right but there is room for amendment. I think the Bill is a good thing for Fijians and other ethnic groups.

Mr Bainimarama has gone too far and needs to be stopped. He seems confused about the Bill. The leader of the army needs to be a person with a cool head and support the Government.

Filise Colatanavanua
Suva

Hard times

A POLITICAL thinker of old said that if you are weak militarily and economically, you will be weak politically. The Government is on one side and the military is on the other regarding the Unity Bill.

It is a pity to see the best of our soldiers contemplating hard times ahead, as Mr Bainimarama said last week at Pacific Harbour. It is a big problem for our country because success or winning (with reference to Mr Bainimarama) is everyone's goal, whether it is a political game or personal gain.

Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase is a nationalist looking after the interests of indigenous people.

With the Unity Bill, he hopes to get everyone who were involved in the 2000 coup out of prison. Already he is counting his votes and maybe he will get another political life.

On the other hand, Mr Bainimarama is getting personal in his quest to know who tried to force him out from his top post.

They were the same people who were instrumental in the 2000 coup and army mutiny of November 2. What happens in the next few weeks or months, we will have to prepare for when things will get worse.

Otherwise, we just have to rely on the wheels of fortune to swing us back to political and economic stability. Each player must know that we will never succeed if we use violence as a means of securing our future and of our children.

Sam Loankadavu
Suva

Silent critics

I PREDICTED that the Great Council of Chiefs would endorse the Bill.

As I said, the SDL/CAMV coalition, provincial councils and the GCC are the representatives of the Fijian people.

Fijians have made their verdict and we should respect it. Any court case against the Bill will only inflame matters.

As for the Editors Forum, Mr Qarase, the Parliament's legal lawyer and A-G did a wonderful job and congratulations to all of them.

It is funny people such as Virisila Buadromo and others who had protested strongly against the Bill didn't have the guts to directly question the PM at the Editor's Forum at the Fiji Times last week.

The CCF was also absent.

It is alarming that most Indians express total ignorance of the Fijian Affairs Act, the Fijian administration and the chiefly system, yet they demand to be called Fijians.

The lesson for Virisila, Ravula, the CCF, NGOs, Tuisawau, yellow ribbon wearers and other protesters is that the Fijian leaders has its people behind them and they did not become a leader just because they were the loudest voice in the media.

Ravuama Vere
Nasinu

Chiefly council

I WOULD like to thank the Tui Vuda and the President, Ratu Josefa Iloilo, for his speech at the opening of the Great Council of Chiefs.

He said what many silent commoners were afraid to say and in his capacity as the President and a chief, the Government and members of the GCC will heed his words.

He was not biased but stated that chiefs are looked upon not only as chiefs of the Fijian people but for the whole of Fiji.

Chiefs should help unify a divided society and promote stability and goodwill. We should be able to reconcile on terms that not only heal physical wounds but also emotional ones.

We should be able to tolerate one another even if it means that a vulagi takes the reins of leadership. I believe that given a chance and through dialogue at community level and the higher realm of the hierarchy, we can achieve a beautiful Fiji � the way the world should be.

Surely, we do not want to scare the investors who see the potential that Fiji has. Many lives have been destroyed since May 2000. How many more people have to lose their jobs?

Who is willing to give up a father, a mother, husband, wife, a son, daughter or a friend? Definitely not me!

The Bill needs to be amended and those who came up with the idea of the Bill should not use the Bible as a tool for justification.

Tawake Kolinisau
Suva

Muflow of Lies from Qarase's Government.

The race aligned policies in sucessive Fiji Governments is the underlying cause to Fiji's political uncertainity, according to a journalist cum lawyer Mssr Richard Naidu.

G.C.C has missed the opportunity says Pacific Concerns Resources Centre. Realistically G.C.C has a documented track record of doing just that. Does the Fiji have to wait for the G.C.C's moment of inspiration?

Can we decentralize the decision making and empower the grass roots to fulfill their own destiny on a level playing field with unmovable goalposts?

This underlying atmosphere of racial mistrust is disconcerting for Fiji's future.

Added to Fiji's woes, is the inept performance of monopolistic organizations that compounds and excelebrates the digital divide with worthless turf battles at the expense of the masses. Placing much publicized projects like Yaqara at the bottom of the must-do list for potential venture capitalists in Fiji.
The brewing issue of land is another dimension that needs to be resolved independent of the abusive and conniving Native Lands Trust board. The lack of data complains a NGO foundation called Foundation of People of the South Pacific. So use the unemployed people in Fiji to collect your data, lady, because they are literate too.

Rural primary schools in Fiji show their worth. Fiji Government give them your undivided attention.

Baseless lip-service in Fiji Politics.

Fiji's Police Commissioner is quitely seething at this R.T.U Bill. This Bill also will receive the baptism of fire when confronted with land issues in Fiji.
This grand Fijian coalition designed by Old Farts like these people in the collage, are gearing up for the 2006 elections with their racial based incentives.

Qoroniasi is up to his old tricks of tampering with existing laws for his own agenda. However Fiji Womens crisis Centre won't let that happen without a showdown in Court.

Qarase's Ministers continue to churn out concentrated dosages of gooey lip-service for the battle against Corruption and Multi-racialism. Mssr Tavola, refer your attention to international accepted precepts used in 'Freedom of Information' or 'Whistle Blower' Laws.
Great Council of Chiefs Chairman does not need to explain their baseless and unsubstantiated decision to support the Bill. Everyone knows that the institution, as well as the Provincial councils are POLITICAL PUPPETS. Just protecting their own interests.

The Fiji Labour unions are also expressing the anger at the honesty deficit within Fiji Public Service. No wonder skilled migration of Health workers from Fiji, is on the exponential rise.
National Alliance Party Chairman and former Chairman of Great Council of Chiefs is moving towards a society of inclusiveness in Fiji which is dratically needed to move forward in todays global village. We need to re-think, re-evaluate all previously held conceptions in Fiji's template of Politics. Obviously change is needed but there are Elements of Danger in Fiji who do not want to decentralize power, decision-making and control. These people defend their turf with tooth and nail.
The race card used by succesive Fiji Governments is a political 'Red-Herring' for failed efforts in multi-racialism. Fiji Times Editorial comments on the modern trends of mobile manpower. Human capital is on the move from Fiji. Too bad, Qarase et all can't stop them. Their despotic policies are in fact accelerating this outflow.

More selected letters to Fiji Times Editor.

Chiefly wisdom

THE wisdom of the august Great Council of Chiefs is questionable as most of them do not pay basic tax for the simple reason that for most of them are unemployed or unemployable villagers.

Why does this government pay so much priority in appeasing the non-taxpayers of this country?

The debate on the Unity Bill should start with the assumption that taxpayers have the last say rather than the least say. There are only two constants in this world — death and paying tax, all others including politics and chiefly wisdom are superfluous.

Jone B Raiva
Suva

Title disputes

I THANK Justice Devendra Pathik (FT 16/7) for referring the title dispute of the Tui Vuna back to the Native Lands and Fisheries Commission.

After all the commission has the evidence and power to decide on the validity of cases that come before it. Perhaps the dispute over the Tui Nadi claim could be resolved in the same manner because it has been dragging on for too long.

As an illustration, taking chiefly disputes to court is like one faction pulling the head of a cow and in the middle are lawyers milking the cow for all she's worth.

I wish all High Court judges followed Justice Pathik so that all pending chiefly disputes are resolved quickly by the commission without interference from the High Court via an injunction. Some lawyers are getting fatter from the amount of milk they're drinking.

Alipate D. Tuidraki
Sabeto

Feeding Fiji

AGRICULTURE Minister Ilaitia Tuisese recently said Fiji could save $300m in costs if farmers produce vegetables for the tourism industry.

Let us be realistic. Were Fiji to be self-sufficient in fruit, vegetables and a wider range of meat/fish products, we would save more than $300m. With a will, I am sure the way forward can be found.

However, the types and quality of produce must meet customer expectations, otherwise the exercise will be in vain.

We all want to eat what we enjoy, not what is thrust at us in the name of import substitution. Witness the amount of root vegetables flown to Fiji military outposts to accommodate the needs of our troops so that they may enjoy their favourite product, unobtainable in their locale.

Years ago I was fortunate enough to attend an Asian Productivity Organisation review of the tourism product in Thailand. There in the northern hinterlands of that land, Thais grow among other things, quality fruit and vegetables ranging from peaches, pears, and rhubarb to asparagus, broccoli and zucchini on land not dissimilar in height above sea level, and of equidistance from the equator to Nadarivatu.

This program was put together by USAid as a drug substitution effort. The production well serves the Thai tourism industry by providing quality product for demanding customers.

Another area renowned for quality of its beef is Taveuni, in many ways similar in quality to Vanuatu beef. Raviravi once produced quality prawns. I know it can be done because once upon a time it happened at Nadarivatu and Taveuni.

However, it needs enormous dedication from the hotel industry, political will from the leadership and commitment from the growers and distributors.

There have been many failed efforts in the past for one reason or another. However, if international hotels in China make it work through budgeting and placing orders for local food a year in advance, it can surely work in here.

Let's look at the Chinese model. It may just work to Fiji's advantage as well.

Kevin Mutton
Nadi

No strikes

STRIKES (FT 23/7) are always depressing.

Invariably they represent a destruction of wealth, often a loss of customers and jobs. There has to be a better way of resolving differences. A strike in a public sector utility causes hardship to everyone.

Everyone is inconvenienced. Fragile and sick people are endangered, businesses lose money and possibly customers and tourists are driven away.

The strikers lose income. Often the losses are never recovered. A strike in a private sector industry like tourism costs the operators money (and encourages them in future to invest in other countries).

It drives away tourists, and again the strikers lose income. Once customers and money are lost, they are never recovered. All contracts of employment should contain binding "no-strike" pacts.

There must still be a way of resolving disputes. A "no-strike" pact must not become a charter for bad employers. A viable alternative is a contract of employment which stipulates that disputes must be settled by legally-enforceable binding arbitration.

This is a big step for both parties to take: Both employer and worker seem to be giving up the right unilaterally to say "no".

But it does provide a way of eliminating the destructiveness of strikes, which is no benefit to the employer, employee, customer and everyone else.

"No strike" contracts of employment and binding arbitration are standard in many industries in the US and in most of the private sector in Britain.

It will only succeed if both parties have faith in the arbitrator. The choice of arbitrator must be specified in the contract.

For example, a high court judge from an independent country might be a sensible choice.

The real danger with an arbitrator is that he will simply recommend a middle path compromise between two positions.

This leads to more inflated demands, and ultimately causes national inflation, which effectively is a tax on age and on savings. There is a way to avoid this by specifying "pendulum" arbitration, where the arbitrator has to find for one claim or the other.

This tends to result in both sides trying to make their position look reasonable and usually leads to a rapid agreement without arbitration. Pendulum arbitration is an unusual addition to labour relations but it is normal in a law court, where a judge (or jury) has to decide if someone is guilty or not.

Someone cannot be half guilty — either they killed someone or they didn't. I worked with pendulum arbitration for 10 years. It was a breakthrough in terms of labour relations, losses against the employer, losses against the worker and lost customers.

There is a better way. Lets get rid of these stupid strikes where nobody wins.

Peter Chadwick
USP

Defence Ministry

WOULD it be possible for the army to come under one ministry to be named the Ministry of Defence?

The minister should preferably have a military background. Thus when the minister, a political appointee, gives the army commander a directive, it should be seen as an order.

The present stand-off between the army and the Government saddens me in that while they should be working together, they are at loggerheads over a damn Bill. Could this be because the minister is a civilian? If the minister had a military background he or she would see the commander's point of view.

And this will also enable the army to have a direct voice in Parliament.

Allen lockington
Lautoka

The distant horizon of Real & Transparent Democracy in muddy Fiji politics.

I'm not the only one condemming G.C.C's decision which has no factual basis designed by truth-impaired individuals like Fiji's crooked Attorney General.

So after G.C.C disregarded the public's view and glossed over the contentions raised by Fiji Law Society and Fiji Military. Now the G.C.C wants people to respect their decision and unify. Well let me tell you something about respect G.C.C, it's a two-way street.
That respect must also weigh on the G.C.C decision which is so far divorced from reality, they could be on the planet Mars.

That idea to out-source security to an Israeli private security firm is taking fire already from all quarters in Fiji. Deja Vu of P.N.G and Sandline International- a British security firm contracted to protect the Diamond mines there.

Selected letters to Fiji Times Editor of Sat. July 30th edition.

Our future

WATCHING Hotel Rwanda starring Don Cheadle and Sophie Okonedo made me realise how fragile our political situation is.

I wonder what the future holds for our young generation who will be fathers and mothers of this land. It scares me reading newspapers and watching TV about the political crisis in Fiji. Are we at war against our neighbour and the vanua?

What happened to the days of chiefly loyalty and respect? Is this going to be the guilty generation in the future? Can the country assure the future generation of this land that our future is stable and blood will not spill on the vanua?

The Bible (Corinthians 13: 4-8) says love is patient, love is kind.

Love does not envy, does not boast, is not proud, is not rude, is not self-seeking, is not easily angered and keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, trusts, hope and always perseveres. Love never fails but who will be responsible for our future?

Salanieta Delailakeba
Nausori

Blaming Christians

THE testimony of a former Hindu who converted to Christianity that Hindu Rayman and idols are powerless, is indeed offensive.

People who make such comments lack commonsense. As Christians, we are supposed to share the love of Jesus Christ, not condemn but respect people of other faiths.

The speculation that churches are behind the desecration of temples is baseless and offensive. People who break in, steal and desecrate temples are thieves. They target churches too.

Hindus in Fiji have all the freedom to freely practise their faith without fear of persecution or incarceration, unlike Christians in India and in Islamic countries who live in fear all the time. In India, Christians have been forced to convert to Hinduism by the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Recently, about 500 Hindu villagers attacked members of a church in Karnataka where they sexually molested female members, burned Bibles and bashed the pastor and his wife, who bled profusely. In January 1998, Dara Singh, a Hindu activist, attacked an Australian missionary who was sleeping with his two sons in their vehicle.

The group beat the three unmercifully with their fists and clubs. Then they set the vehicle on fire and watched the three roast alive.

What I am trying to say is that Christians and the churches are not going around berating Hindus, burning their places of worship or houses.

Even when we had the coups, Fijians, mainly Christians, and Indians lived peacefully. There was no religious rioting. It is wrong to think that churches or Christians are involved in sacrilege.

Emmanuel Prasad
Lautoka

Modern design

IN the centre of Suva a large and expensive building has been built.

It is a jewel of modern architecture yet demonstrates little in regards to the culture and style of Fiji. Suva is the business centre of the South Pacific and as such, could be a monument to exquisite taste in the combining of modern and traditional designs.

An architect of vision is desperately needed for the proposed new downtown market building, before Suva becomes a duplicate of so many faceless cities.

GB Willow Albert,
Waidroka Bay

State lies

THE opinion piece 'State's lies and deception' (FT 26/7) written by the head of the School of Social and Economic Development at the University of the South Pacific, is a dubious testament to scholarship in his field.

Even if the motive was purely political, his pedantic and convoluted diatribe against the Prime Minister deserves no amnesty from criticism.

Bill Miller
Suva

Army's stand

THE stand taken by Voreqe Bainimarama and the army against the Government and the Unity Bill in the name of national security and justice is, in my view, a disguise and an attempt to prevent the truth from being told — that the 2000 coup was a military coup disguised as a civilian coup.

In order to save their souls, the Commander and military will go to any lengths to protect themselves, even appeasing Mahendra Chaudhry and the Labour Party from taking further court action against them and bullying, threatening and belittling the Government and everyone else in their way everytime they feel like it.

How ironic that Commodore Bainimarama should be singing the tune of justice.

Why didn't he apply justice in 2000 when he had the power and authority in the world to have the Labour Government reinstated after they were set free from captivity?
That is the question all right-thinking people should be asking the Commander.

Lydia Underwood
Nausori

Woman PM

IMTIAZ Ali (FT 23/7) said Fiji needs a female PM. The suggestion may not sit well with many but I believe Mr Ali's comment represents a cry from the heart of a young nation.

We cannot deny that we have lost our cohesiveness. It happened when political fathers brought about disruption, disunity and disenchantment among us.

Like insecure, deprived juveniles, we bicker and quarrel among ourselves, floundering between arguments and ideals and ending nowhere in the process. Some took offence at the remark by the Commonwealth secretary-general that Fiji was a nation of children.

He was correct because we have yet to come of age in politics. Before it happened, the rug in the family room was pulled from under us by a group of irresponsible fathers.

The comfort and security the country needs to settle and grow is not there. If we do not make it available, juvenile delinquents will grow into irresponsible adults who will be of little use in society.

I read with dismay that tourists were told to stay away from Fiji because of the political uncertainty.

Do we know what we are doing and where we are going? The warning was over the top but on one hand it is our fault for behaving in a way that created a wrong impression of us to the world. What will it take for Fiji to settle and grow? It takes a responsible parent with a lateral thought process and unwavering commitment to the common good.

When Corazon Aquino became president of the Philippines there was a huge celebration. Her victory signalled the end of Marcos and people danced in the streets.

A TV reporter asked a young man in the crowd what was it about Ms Aquino's victory that made him happy? He replied: "Because our country needs a mother."

DGM Robinson
Labasa

Bill for voters

MUCH has been said about the Unity Bill. It causes goodwill and reconciliation to a certain race while it means fear and uncertainty to another group.
Where one stands in his opinion we must not forget there is a group whose voice is not heard. These are the bystanders or silent minority.
Each voter should be given a slip of paper on election day to tick if they support the Bill. That way, unless one does not want to vote or is not eligible, all citizens of the country are guaranteed their voice is heard.

Seleisitino Caucau
Ba

GCC Support

DR JONA Senilagakali (FT 28/7) may have pre-empted the decision of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga which supports the Unity Bill. The council cannot go against the will of the people if it wanted.
The Bose Levu Vakaturaga was enshrined in the 1997 Constitution as a counter-balance to the increased political representation granted to Indians.

When it comes to brass tax, the Bill eventually became a struggle along racial demarcation, with 99 per cent Fijians supporting it and 99 per cent Indians opposing it. If the GCC opposed the Bill, it would be seen to be supporting Indians over Fijian interests.
The chronology of events Dr Senilagakali listed and the stand the august body took, proves it will never go against its people. It means the Bill will sail through Parliament.

If you are in jail because you do not like Indians, the Bill will be your get-out-of-jail-free ticket. Expect members of the Opposition to boycott the debate.
The burden of proof now falls on victims. First, they have to overcome the stereotype that will come their way because of their opposition to the Bill.

Proving that you were a victim of the coup would be like proving a back pain — impossible. Unless there is a radical departure from the status quo, the SDL will win more than 39 seats in 2006.

I take my hat off to the Prime Minister for devising an excellent strategy and winning the election one year before it is held. But whether it will be good for the country is another question.

Praneet Singh
Sacramento California

Finance post

I READ with interest media reports on the inaciton by the Public Service Commission to appoint a new chief executive for the Finance Ministry.

Two months have passed since eight candidates were interviewed. Why has the PSC not given a recommendation to the PM? At one stage, the PSC chairman and CEO were away overseas — one reason for the delay. Before that, the chairman went overseas on a private visit, not connected to his post.

Before that, the excuse they gave for the delay was that the post had to be re-advertised because of a lack of suitable candidates. At one stage, reports said "an expatriate may fill the position".

Word on the grapevine says that in the interview of eight candidates by five members of the commission, Paula Uluinaceva topped the scoresheet but the CEO felt he was too young. Now we hear the CEO is trying to recommend someone from his old school.

In my analysis, the CEO is acting like that because: Mr Uluinaceva is from Kadavu and not from Lau and hence is not eligible. If the CEO concurs to the promotion, Mr Uluinaceva will be paid more and be his senior. The CEO's shunning of Mr Uluinaceva shows he is threatened by a young and capable executive, and

It also shows his inefficiency, considering that he is the final recommending officer for about 300 posts in the so-called senior executive service as compared to more than 23,000 posts delegated to ministries and departments.

Please CEO (PSC), give Mr Uluinaceva a fair go. He is young, dynamic and will prove himself. If you feel he is only the Acting Deputy Secretary, the fact the CEO post will be contracted alienates the requirement of serving 2-3 years. Let justice prevail.

Aminio Bale
Qauia Village

The Blind leading the blind in Fiji politics.

Great Council of Chiefs have shown their adherence to convoluted policies of SDL/CAMV which are counter productive to Fiji's national cohesion. G.C.C have also demonstrated their case of being obsolete in modern governance. It also means that their own chiefly titles are no longer safe from being challenged by democracy and market forces.

These two architects of chaos ( Qarase and Qoroniasi) have painted a target on their backs. All gloves come off now and so does the last straw of respect for them and the ancient order of G.C.C and N.L.T.B.

The idea to create a corruption organization in Fiji is a toothless tiger without the "whistle blower" laws or "Freedom of Information" laws. Nothing less will suffice.

The idea to overhaul the entire Fiji Public service is following my sentiments. So this corruption organization is another example of expanding Government without the financial resources in place.

Engineering robotics in Fiji by U.S.P technology students opens up the industrial creativity that Fiji needs in the knowledge economy. Something that Fiji Government, G.C.C, N.L.T.B knows zero about. That is the future for Fiji, not bloodlines or archaic institutions like them.

S.D.L/C.A.M.V coalition is the biggest joke in Fiji.

The wake up call for all chiefs by the Fiji President, who is a chief in his own right is exactly what I've been saying on this blog. My point of contention is that, nobody knows whether the chiefs are already considered 'a decoration' by urban based Fijians.

Qarase is lashing out at critics of the provincial councils, in supporting the R.T.U Bill. I will challenge his comments. When the provincial council cannot even keep accurate accounting records or have their accounts audited by independent auditors. What is this R.T.U Bill for them?

Fiji Great Council of Chiefs is struggling not to be perceived as obsolete. They need to step up and apply technology to Fiji culture. Youths are fast losing their ability to speak native language due to the overwhelming media influences. So take your time G.C.C. By the time, they get to the issue, it would be too late.

The idea to have an Israeli firm to set up a private army in Fiji, to protect politicians will not be received well by Fiji military.

The muddy concept of Pax-Fijiana.

Methodist Church Indian Division Superintendent calls for the amnesty provision in the R.T.U Bill to be applied across the board in Fiji. The creative financing programs for Government projects is undergoing change. I applaud their decision to adapt new measures. However, as I keep reiterating that more is required. This is just the peak of the foothills that lead to the Alpine mountains.

Government Supplies Department is on the verge of being redundant. This is a wonderful milestone in the right direction for Fiji. Albeit, reform in Government is still in it's infancy. Furthermore, the volatile ripples of mistrust propogated by the R.T.U Bill will undermine this crucial transition.

The main restrictions for progress in Fiji are these colonial era instituions like N.L.T.B which must be made redundant also. They are just receiving too much handouts from Fiji Government and in doing so, keeps the rest of the population in poverty.
Having the Fiji Government cabinet to decide in absolute; is unconstitutional, simply because the local Government have their own financial obligations to keep their operations running, which the public need. They have to pay overheads, pay their staff, keep maintaining their assets.
The final decision must come from a Parliament vote. not from some back-room-dealings in cabinet. That is the root cause, of loose Governance and a hinderance to tranparency in Fiji.
The cycle of corruption compounded by the coup culture, highlights the depths of woes within the Fiji Government. More will arise, without 'Whistler Blower'laws, dedicated readers might have noticed me, repeat this.
Unions are up in arms over the Fiji Government's lack of integrity and honesty, in dealing with industrial conflict. S.D.L/C.A.M.V have signed their own death warrant in their political careers by ignoring the union's concerns. Despite Qarase having support from 14 provinces who basically bludge off the Fiji's treasury and contribute very little to economic growth.
So much cynicism against Qarase's Government that they have become the butt end of jokes in Fiji.
Another day in Paradise, another dollar for a Fijian restauranteer. Perhaps the first Taukei to formally declare his entrepeneurial vision in Fiji.

Lack of substance from the muddy S.D.L/C.A.M.V coalition.

Fiji Government will be continually plagued by corruption unless legislation for Whistler blowing and Freedom of Information Laws are enacted.
Fiji's economy is projected to have 4% inflation by offcials in the Reserve Bank of Fiji. Without factoring in the rise in the current fuel prices is just another indication of incompetance.
The employment growth to be achieved by the S.D.L/C.A.M.V coalition as promised by Qarase is another twisted fact which is not shown in Fiji's second quarter economic data.

The inability of Fiji agricultural industry to diversify it's products will be another nail in Fiji's coffin. We have a legimate potential to create export market for the dwindling Sugar industry. Yet, these same layer of "old farts" think they know better for Fiji.

Lowering of Standards by the Prime Minister's office in Fiji.

The 14 provinces of Fiji whose members are all unelected, blindly support this R.T.U Bill. Obviously they are gravely mistaken, if Qarase thinks the provinces speak for all Fijians.
Splitting people into different camps of opposers and supporters. This divisive Bill has also pitted family against family, upsetting the cultural equilibrium within Fiji. It hijacks the essence of Fijian culture for the unlawful removal of democratic leaders and in the process undermines the existing traditional authorities of paramount chiefs.

The agurement by Bill supporters that, to remove the R.T.U Bill is denying democracy is such a pathetic application of democracy. It is selective "Mickey Mouse" Democracy. On one hand, Qarase claims that this Bill follows traditional protocol. However he glosses over the fact, that taking the 2000 Coup effectively removed his traditional paramount chief (the late president, Ratu K. Mara) from power.

Basically, on both counts, Qarase's justification fails the consistency and morality test and his arrogant actions flows against the grain of Viti culture, that is respect for their chiefs. The type of muddy rhetoric, that Fiji media are not pinning Qarase for his inconsistencies. Well I am doing precisely that!


Fiji Government's confused duality status makes a mockery of transparancy, the very key-words that punctuate numerous Government press releases. Actions speak louder than words!

So the Fiji Government continues to be a gate keeper
of information in Fiji, hindering democratic processes, like freedom of association. Reader beware! These are exactly the type of individuals that clog up of the system of change in Fiji.
Chaining people to ignorance and poverty, for their own gain. Someone please remind the ignorant Commissioner Central of the 'freedom of association' IS guaranteed under Fiji's 1997 constitution. These same 'old farts' want to change the constitution, under the guise of reconciliation. Even though changes in
Law are being implemented. The wrong priority is used to identify archaic laws in Fiji. Further to that, the lack of Fiji Government's perpetual funding to these programs is another Archilles heel.

MEMO
TO: Fiji Prime Minster, L. Qarase.
FROM: Stuck in Fiji Mud.
SUBJECT: Standard of writing from Prime Minister's office is a deviation from societal norms, like the R.T.U Bill.

The so called disucussion paper written by L.Qarase and his staff and published on Fiji Government website exemplifies, below par standard of writing.

a.)The document is NOT a paper, as they claim; because it lacks any reputable reference system normally used in publishing documents from any Government office, regardless of country.

b.) The document lacks a bibliography, a table of contents, an abstract statement or a concluding one. The document does not attempt to academically prove anything. It only gives one side of the story, which categorically defines the document as a SPEECH. It does not educate people on the legal or religous justifications, that many people keep hearing from Qarase et all.

c.) The statistics quoted by L.Qarase cannot be substantiated without a reference. For all the readers know, those numbers or events quoted in the document could have been randomly selected to 'sex-up' the contents.

d.) The words used in the document are far below the vocabulary expected of a reasonably educated person. It is also quite basic for such an important issue for Fiji, as Qarase claims it is. Poor quality for something that crucial, sums up their rationale. Or lack of it!

e.) The degree of excellence in the writing, expected at the Prime Minster's office level; indicates the quality of the staff within it. Any bonafide graduate of a liberal arts program would have identified and rectified those elementary mistakes, at the draft reading stage. Failing to appear on anyone's radar screen can only signify the absence of any reasonable work-ethic, of staff in the Prime Minister's office.

The entire document is clearly an ill-conceived piece of writing, designed for dubious politicial purposes. It was created in a highly flawed manner and the errors in the writing is another embarrasment to the calibre and services provided by the entire Fiji civil service.
One of these errors appears on the pseudo-title page and demonstrates the hunger for
power by the writer(s). The correct title for Prime Minister used in Commonwealth nations: " The Honorable Prime Minister, Minister of .....(department name)....( then the incumbent's name).."
This is the original title as appeared in the posted document: " The honorable Laisenia Qarase, the Prime Minister, the Minister of Fijian Affairs..."

The writer(s) of this document, are people who parade around in the Government buildings in their cheap suits, neglecting the quality of their work. Judging from the mistakes within this document, it can be concluded that the writing calibre cannot be distinguished from similar results rendered by high school drop-outs.

Generally the document is nothing more than, a disapointingly 'lowering of standards' within the Prime Minister's office. I will be anticipating an improvement immediately, to prevent any further embarrassment to the P.M's office, by the ingrained ignorance of the staff.

Yours faithfully

Stuck in Fiji Mud.

Muddy pools of mis-representations from S.D.L/C.A.M.V coalition.

More words of wisdom from outgoing U.S ambassador Mssr David Lyons regarding Fiji's complex socio-political situation. Labour party's chaudary claims greed was the cause for the 2000 coups.
Everything in Fiji needs constant review. Leading to the drop
of basic services, especially in Fiji's obsolete medical system. Fiji's V.P re-hashes the dualistic quandary that misleads most rural and uninformed Fijians.

Selected letters to the F.T Editor of Sunday July 24th 2005.

Unity Bill
THE Bill seems to be a repetition of a law created by the Fiji Law Society but this one seems it was created to protect people who break the law. One should understand that whatever is reconciled in us should not be taken again to the law. We are just human beings.

Those who are still hurt from the previous coup should adjust to the environment. Otherwise, they are free to settle elsewhere because this is a democratic country.
Let's move forward and build this nation for the benefit of the next generation. Let's forget the past and work together to make Fiji a better place.

Losana Tunabuna
Nadera

Redundant goods

In March, I read an article in your paper about the shortage of basic items in many small schools.

I believe some of the shortage can be taken care of if the schools are supplied with redundant goods from Australia, including computers, books and writing paper and material.

I can arrange to have the items picked, delivered, storage and distribution to the needy schools in Fiji.

Roger Brown, Sydney
Phone:610-295-191932,
E-mail: j.brown@optusnet.com.au

General elections

The coalition of major Fijian political parties to fight the next election is worrying. It is merely to propagate the Fijian cause to stop any Indian or non-Fijian political party from ruling the country.

What surprises me from the Fiji One news is that the brain-drain behind the move and drafting of the memorandum of understanding is the work of none other than Tomasi Vakatora.

Isn't he the person who headed Vakatora Holdings which owed NBF $1,350,000 when it collapsed in 1995? Should this country have faith and support for people in the community who heaped debts only to pass it on to the taxpayers of this country for settlement?

A prominent and vocal official of the Soqosoqo ni Vakavulewa ni Taukei, Ema Druavesi, owed $129,882 and Druavesi Holdings $149,949,. She is featured in the coalition and was listed as a National Bank of Fiji debtor in The Fiji Times of June 19, 1996.

Can we, the taxpayers of this country, trust these people who have passed on their debt to be paid by us? No wonder the price of consumer goods, fuel and other daily essentials continue to go up.

Adi Nunia Kula
Suva

What's her problem?

WHAT is Adi Koila's problem? Everyone in Lau is permitted by law to sit and listen to the official meeting of the Lau Provincial Council.

Adi Koila can attend the meeting if she asks to address the council on a particular subject. It will be up to the council and chairman to agree or disagree with her request.

But it is really a no-brainer what the Government is trying to do with its Unity Bill to get rid of the stigma of the 2000 coup. Anyone with a bit of brain would realise it. The Bill only concerns the 2000 coup, not before or after.

Why is she acting as if she wants to have revenge on the government of the day for ousting her late father from office? It was not the Government that was responsible. It wasn't George Speight either.

Instead, she should be pushing the Commissioner of Police to investigate the person who forced her father out of office - army commander Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama.

She should be ticked-off with him and not the Government. If her aim is to claim the Tui Lau title she's got something else coming. The title of Tui Lau is decided by the Lau Provincial Council. If it wants, the council can appoint a commoner to be the Tui Lau or even Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi.

Jone Kama
Toronto Canada

Bold stand

I COMMEND the army commander for his bold stand against the Unity Bill and his summary on it — 'Bill work of warped minds'.

Hence, I would like to suggest that the commander set his house in order because it was the army officers and members of the Counter Revolutionary Warfare Unit who perpetrated the 1987 and 2000 coups.

They were the ones who held guns and emptied the armoury at Delainabua. Why don't we give the Bill, with all deleted clauses on amnesty, a chance?
MESAKE TORA,
Suva

Unity Bill

TO those trying to force the Bill down our throat, can they guarantee there will be no more coup in Fiji? If no, then the Bill has failed in its prime objective — to prevent instability. Will it be used to favour those who remove the regime the day?

Deducing from the political climate, the Bill has promoted no reconciliation, unity or tolerance but divided and tore the nation apart. I look forward to a Bill that can make my life simple and peaceful.

Ravind Naidu
Labasa

Muddy tracks around the circle of political dis-enachantment.

More labour insurrection in Fiji. No more Mister Nice guy from the Fiji Unions who have members of multi races fed up with this Mickey Mouse type of industrial relations. Begining of Fiji's industrial birth pains.

Placing scrutiny in Fiji's cash crop- Sugar which is on the decline.

Qarase is trying to paint this controversial R.T.U Bill in different colors. No one is buying that one, sir!
The Police will and Fiji Military have that covered already and initial evidence points to your S.D.L/C.A.M.V coalition.
U.S academic raises an Utopian Theory on protocol in Civilian/Military chain of command. It does not factor in the coup-culture and the volatile racial equilibrium in Fiji.

This rip-off deal by a fly-by-night security firm in Kuwait should prove a point that Fijians should start their own security enterprises, since they already posess the skills. Maybe this would be the new export template to diversify Fiji's export industry to include human capital. However the current work environment in Fiji requires a overhaul to prevent cases of abuse and red-tape in Fiji's civil service.
There is a campaign to Kill Mis-information in Fiji that hijacks the issues of native rights, inciting nationalism for political advancement. More efforts of that regard are required in the multi-media industry in Fiji.
Especially to counter rhetoric from pseudo-political organization hiding behind the title of Policy Enhancement. The heritage foundation is a big donor to the Republican party (G.O.P) to the political pundits. So they must follow the White House talking points. Welcome to policy Intiative forums using the U.S style, University of the South Pacific.

Fiji Times Editorial is trying to get action done via it's static position.

More juicy perspectives of fed up Fiji Citizens as appeared in the Letters to the Editor-Sat. July 23rd 2005 edition.

Kill Mis-information in Fiji politics.

The R.T.U Bill divisive has claimed more victims. Soqosoqo vakamarama a non-entity in Fiji politics are going against the cultural grain which they frequently wave around inconsistently. Technically violating Viti culture. Generally women are not allowed to comment, participate or meddle with political matters in Fiji.
So everyone in Fiji applies culture for their own agendas.

Another large union federation warns Qarase's Government on the R.T.U Bill. Fiji's civil service has always played games like this with the Fiji unions. But the Fiji Nurse unions won't tolerate this deception in agreements.


This gate keeping role of Government is being addressed by Citizens Consitutional Forum spokesman.

Me Inc. That is the template which Fiji Youth should be investing their time in, claims Fiji Development Bank C.E.O. But in an environment of monopolies, that model of free-enterprise cannot succeed in Fiji.

Chronic mis-representations in Fiji politics.

Fiji's Police Commissioner may not be vocal of his dislike for the R.T.U Bill. But his actions lately, show his dislike for it.
So does the actions of Fiji Women's N.G.O's.
The rate at which Fiji's the 'bean counters' overlook numerical accucracy in their operating procedures. The more occurences of over-spending of Fiji's treasury.
The migration of skilled nurses from Fiji shores is only one dimension of the problem, of the lack of an adequate living wage scale in Fiji that factors in the high taxes and under par basic services of water, electricity and telephone bills. Need I say more.
The layer of old farts in decision making positions in Fiji have placed an artificial ceiling on low income wages while neglecting to rein in excessive salary levels of Executive pay scale.
Fiji Civil Service has a unit called Higher Salaries Commision which monitors the salaries of all executives in every state and private organization. This unit have developed a formula that projects a straight line graph on the incremental increases that they think Fiji's economy is capable of sustaining.

The same people are at it trying to prevent Fiji from developing. Home Affairs minister is caught with his pants down by interfearing with staff selections which affects people's liveli-hood. Good people willing to speak out against injustice in Fiji.
Senator Koila Nailatikau, daughter of the late Fiji President Ratu Mara lashes out at the inconsistencies of Qarase's idealogies and brings up the neglected public infrastructure which should be a higher priority, if Qarase was serious in being a statesman. S.D.L/C.A.M.V coalition policies reverse the long standing tradition of multi-racialism in Fiji, spits on the pedestal of human rights and thumbs their noses at international opposers to this R.T.U Bill. When transparent dialogue is warranted.
Koila asks an important question: Why can't Qarase et all, unable to function without the coup perpertraitors? The same question which Kotobalavu, the C.E.O of Prime Minister's office evaded, goose stepped. Typical yes-man and echos the used diatribe that R.T.U Bill is important in the long term interest of Fiji. You're entitled to your own opinions, Mssr Kotobalavu, whether or not it is the god-given truth, is debatable.
N.L.T.B is obviously trying to justify it's role in changing native agricultural land into commercial property. Imagine it took them all this time to implement it. The N.L.T.B complains of lack of funding, yet the Fiji National Provident Fund is seeking viable projects to invest their surplus funds in.
The logical option of having F.N.P.F invest in this particular kind of landowner commercial projects is NOT being widely adapted for an age old reason.
The policiy of creating stumbling blocks for the financial independence of commoners. Social stratifying the chiefs interests by giving them carte blanche in Fijian Holdings under the smokes screen of Fijian supremacy and Affirmative Action. Which realistically is a voter-buying scheme.

That Nadi landowner, creating the Westfield city project is not subscribing to the N.L.T.B's colonial template of selective social engineering. Good for him. I wish every landowner in Fiji shared his vision. Maybe the political problems will diminish drastically due to shared wealth, leading to financially independent Fijians and lower unemployement and crime.
Fiji Reserve Bank is releasing a new definition of "foreign reserves" which may take years to filter down to the actual working class of accountants and bankers. How does this affect Fiji's macro-economy has not been outlined by the Fiji Reserve bank.

Fiji's agricultural Minsiter is raising an entrepreneurial opputunity that has escaped the imagination of successive Fiji Government policies. Past agricultural projects have failed due to the lack of project oversight and reporting as well as the abscence of qualified and industrious personnel.
The root problems within Fiji Agricultral Ministry still exists. The time for excuses is over, it's time that these C.E.O take some responsability in their decisions. Fiji's laws should also penalise officials who are not performing.
Even Fiji lacks a comprehensive energy policy. Qarase touts this Bio-fuel concept but
files the project under maybe. If Qarase at least used the same urgency used in bulldozing the R.T.U Bill in Fiji, to push this project forward just shows how backward the entrenched mentality in Fiji's decision making roles.

Neglect Engineering, Science and Techonology and one accelerates their own economic demise.

The misconception that having Fijians at the helm of the Pacific Islands Chapter of the Internet Society( P.I.C.I.S.O.C) will bring success in Fiji's internet capacity cannot be serious considered. Due to the fact that this organization will have to intiate the reformative policies of combating the digital divide in Fiji.
It is a fact, that Moore's Law concludes that the power of microprocessors will increase exponentially every 18 months. USA's bandwidth increases every 2 years.

I believe, Fiji bandwidth capacity will not be expected to expand much until the Telecomunication monopoly in Fiji is removed. Reforms is a necessary evil, if Fiji wants to be a economic juggernaut in the South Pacific. Not undertaking reform of multi-industries, Fiji's dream will remain just that. Successful action, requires self-discipline. Like this office of the Ombudsman in Fiji. They should at least consider opening another permanent office in Vanua Levu, to cater for the population base. This underfunding of crucial state oversight mechanims, is being deliberately financially strangled, to propogate this culture of cronyism and corruption in Fiji.