International Day of the Girl
October 11 marked the International Day of the Girl, a day dedicated to acknowledging the voices, actions, and leadership of girls. This day belongs to all of humanity who care about girls and their rights. The thought-provoking theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future”, amplifies that girls are courageous in facing challenges and are the hope for the future. Let us work together to build a future where every girl’s rights are protected. Remember, when girls achieve their goals, we are creating a better world. So, let’s start now if we haven’t already. RODNEY CLARENCE RAJ, Naleba Labasa
Corruption-free?
The FijiFirst party is gone — becoming history by self-inflicted doings. And the new FICAC commissioner has declared the corruption watchdog body will now embark on its intended purpose of protecting the people from the scourge of corruption. And, the Rabuka Coalition Government has proclaimed in its Fiji’s Vision 2050 “there will be zero tolerance for corruption” and Fiji will be an “exemplary example of a democracy for the region and the world”. At age 70 I am unlikely to witness the realisation of that vision of a corruption-free utopian Fiji. But the people of Fiji are blessed to have that utopian democracy on the cards. Rajend Naidu, Sydney, Australia
Fiji passport in USA
This week, the Fiji Embassy Passport Services at the East Coast are making their annual pilgrimage to the West Coast of Northern California for passport renewals. When the trip itinerary was recently announced, reservation was filled up within hours. There is a long wait list for most who prefer to wait for this opportunity rather than spending on average $US3000 to travel to the Fiji Embassy in Washington DC. For context, about 50,000 Fijians now live in America and 75 per cent of whom reside in the West Coast metropolitan areas of San Francisco and Sacramento. It has been raised in talanoa sessions with previous governments and the current government to review the passport renewal services of the Fiji Embassy with a view to relocate and join the Fiji Trade Commission office at Burlingame, San Francisco or to schedule more trips. We hope common sense prevails. Esala Nakalevu, Sacramento, USA
Mobiles and laptops
GIVING out mobiles and laptops to the members of Parliament is another hot issue at present. The critics are asking the Prime Minister if the taxpayers are paying for these gadgets. No clear answers are coming from the authorities therefore people appear to be confused and angry. As far as we know no previous government ever had this system of supplying such expensive items to MPs at taxpayers’ cost. More so when the country is loaded with debt I believe such unnecessary expenditures should be avoided. Besides fixed salaries, other perks and allowances are given to our MPs therefore I believe they are in a sound financial position to own their personal gadgets to deliver services. There are other pressing issues faced by our citizens throughout the country. Besides high cost of living, water supply and road conditions in our rural areas need immediate attention. We sincerely hope the current Coalition Government would relook at their priorities and act accordingly. VIJAY MAHARAJ, Sydney, Australia
