The Fiji Times reports on March 11, 2025, that Attorney-General Graham Leung reassures constitutional adherence amidst upcoming changes. The Government is advancing a Code of Conduct Bill for public officials. An explosion at the Ministry of Fisheries resulted in one death and two critically injured. Merchant Finance Pte Limited launched a lucrative loan product. The Methodist Church highlighted rising drug abuse, advocating for parental empowerment and rehabilitation resources, emphasizing the need for awareness and collective action.
On March 11, 2025, The Fiji Times featured three significant stories on its front page. Attorney-General Graham Leung reassured the public that any review of the Constitution will strictly adhere to legal protocols, emphasizing an intention to maintain constitutional integrity. Furthermore, the Government is advancing the Code of Conduct Bill, which aims to establish clear standards for public officials and reinforce governance frameworks. This Bill, initially proposed in 2018, will ensure compliance with constitutional codes of conduct for public office holders.
In a concerning incident, one individual lost their life, and two others are in critical condition following an explosion at the Ministry of Fisheries Office in Wainibokasi, Nausori. This tragic event adds to the urgency of governmental and public safety measures.
In business news, Merchant Finance Pte Limited introduced a new land subdivision loan product, projected to yield a 30 to 50 percent profit for developers. CEO Veilawa Rereiwasaliwa explained this strategic decision, highlighting the potential benefits despite the risks typically associated with such ventures, as reported in an interview.
Additionally, the Methodist Church in Fiji has acknowledged the troubling rise in drug abuse among children, particularly those from Methodist backgrounds. During the Fathers’ Sunday service in Suva, Reverend Dr. Jolami Lasawa underscored the pivotal role fathers play in shielding their children from harmful influences. Emphasizing the need for a nationwide effort, he called for empowering parents and guardians to combat the drug crisis effectively.
The Reverend highlighted, “One of the biggest challenges we face today is the issue of drugs and HIV.” He emphasized collaboration with NGOs and law enforcement to address the escalating crisis while the church continues its support for affected families.
The nation faces alarming statistics, as Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu declared an official HIV outbreak due to a dramatic rise in new cases and deaths. A staggering 1,093 new HIV cases and 115 related deaths were recorded between January and September 2024.
The challenges are compounded by a lack of adequately resourced rehabilitation centers for those wishing to overcome drug addiction, necessitating urgent action. The necessity for rehabilitation centers has been a repeated call over the past four years, with the potential to decrease crime related to drug abuse.
It is crucial to promote conversations around drug abuse, advocating for awareness and support to address this pervasive issue. The church’s recognition of the problem is a positive step, and their commitment to confront it is commendable. Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, proactive education and support are essential in addressing the numerous lives and communities affected by this crisis.
In conclusion, the articles from The Fiji Times on March 11, 2025, highlight critical societal issues in Fiji, including adherence to constitutional processes, developments in governance, a tragic accident, and the rising concerns of drug abuse and HIV. The commitment of the Methodist Church and the call for more rehabilitation resources signal a growing awareness and determination to combat these pressing challenges effectively. Through collaboration and increased support, Fiji can work towards addressing these serious issues facing its communities.
Original Source: www.fijitimes.com.fj
