Around 70 passengers are stranded at Natovi jetty due to technical problems with a Goundar Shipping vessel's ramp. Passengers, who had traveled from Suva early in the morning, expressed frustration and called for improved services, noting similar issues had occurred the previous day.

FijiFirst MP Mosese Bulitavu argues that the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) should have its own regulatory mechanism to operate independently and avoid excessive government involvement, which would necessitate taxpayer input. He suggests that administrative roles currently managed by the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs and ITLTB could fall under the GCC, along with interests like customary fishing rights and royalties from natural resources. Bulitavu also notes that the 1987 and 2000 coups were driven by economic disparities affecting the iTaukei community, leading to political instability and racial tensions.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has urged government agencies and departments to be vigilant about expiring land leases and take necessary actions. He emphasized the economic implications of idle land due to non-renewed leases, affecting both government revenue and tenants' livelihoods. Rabuka highlighted the importance of communication between landlords and tenants before lease expiry to ensure tenants have adequate time to prepare for relocation.

Parents in Fiji have reported losing the $200 Back to School assistance sent by the government to their M-PAiSA accounts, with some claiming unauthorized transfers. Vodafone Fiji Ltd, responsible for processing the payments, has received 15 complaints out of 190,000 transactions and is investigating the claims. The company emphasizes the importance of account security and urges users to keep their PIN and OTP confidential. Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad referred all queries to his permanent secretary.

Melania Disea, now 86 and a clan leader in Fiji, recalls seeing a 'diratarata' or centaur, an ancestral tribal god, in her youth at Nabubu Village. Despite her fear and the villagers' disbelief, this was a significant encounter for her. She also recounts the story of Radaiga, a warrior who aided local chiefs in battles and formed lasting alliances. Melania reflects on the simplicity and healthiness of life in the past, attributing her longevity to the natural diet of her youth, and expresses concern for the current generation's quality of life.

Fiji Police have confirmed the rescue of 12 individuals from Tuvuca Island in Vanuabalavu, Lau, following a boating accident. The group had gone for a picnic when their boat capsized. Three individuals have died, and a search is underway for a missing 12-year-old girl, involving villagers and police officers from Vanuabalavu Police Station.

The Vanua Levu Landowners Association is hopeful that the Government of Fiji will agree to sell them shares in Fiji Pine Limited this year. Association president Tevita Raiova emphasized the long-term benefits for landowners and their descendants, expressing optimism about the new management and recent positive changes.

Small business operators play a crucial role in building the national economy, as emphasized by Commissioner Northern Uraia Rainima during a workshop in Labasa. He highlighted the potential of culture and creative industries and urged participants to register their businesses to succeed as cultural producers. Rainima noted that the change in administration would boost the local economy, particularly in Savusavu, which is set to adopt blue-economy principles. He encouraged participants to utilize the opportunities and assistance provided by the Government.

Christians in Labasa were reminded of the importance of embodying Christ's character during Christmas church services. At the Methodist Church's sunrise service, lay preacher Ratu Josefa Celua spoke of Jesus' birth as a symbol of hope. Father Carlo Jung, during the Catholic mass at the Holy Family Parish, emphasized Christmas as a time for sharing and love. Concurrently, police maintained security due to increased activity in Labasa Town and Damodar City.

Fish demand in Fiji has doubled during the festive season, with prices increasing as fishermen focus on harvesting beche-de-mer following the government's ban lift. Vendors in Labasa market are receiving many orders, especially from Suva, and have to raise prices to make a profit. Despite high prices for vegetables and rootcrops as well, consumers continue to purchase them, with mixed reactions to the costs. The income from these sales is crucial for vendors' families during the festive period.

Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka commended the northern communities of Fiji for a crime-free Christmas celebration. He reported no major incidents of crime or road accidents and thanked the public for their cooperation with the police. The police maintained patrols during the holiday, particularly in busy areas like Damodar City. SSP Baledrokadroka requested continued community support for the upcoming New Year's weekend and advised responsible celebration.

Nemani Valeniyasana, a pardoned prisoner, reunites with his family after 23 years. Imprisoned in 2000, he returns to find his children educated and married, though his wife passed away in 2007. His brother, Kitione Kauvere, and extended family supported his family during his imprisonment. Valeniyasana's faith and prayers played a significant role in his life, culminating in his pardon on December 21, 2023.

Cane farmers in Macuata raised concerns about drainage issues, problematic floodgates, and saltwater intrusion during a Lands Taskforce consultation. These problems have persisted for nearly two decades, leading to the desertion of many farms in the area. Farmers like Kansami Naicker and Brij Lal reported that saltwater intrusion has damaged crops and forced farmers to relocate. The Ministry of Sugar's permanent secretary for Special Projects, Vinesh Kumar, assured that their concerns would be addressed.

The Banaban community commemorated the 78th anniversary of their forced relocation to Rabi Island from Banaba (Ocean Island) due to Japanese invasion during WWII. The event featured traditional activities and a feast, with elders sharing stories passed down through generations. The British government had relocated the surviving Banabans to Rabi Island, which was purchased using the Banabans' phosphate royalty funds.

Bobby ‘Yoyo’, a singer with over two decades of experience, recently performed at the Dhamaka Concert in Auckland during Fiji Day celebrations, sharing the stage with Bollywood talents like comedian Jimmy Moses and his daughter Jamie Lever. Reflecting on the evolution of music tastes since his first Auckland show 21 years ago, Bobby noted the shift towards faster music with fancy beats among younger audiences. His recent experience has influenced his approach to creating music, aiming to cater to the modern preferences of his listeners. Bobby has gained popularity among former Fiji residents in Auckland and has been booked for various festive season events.

Labasa lawyer Amrit Sen, along with Shumedha Chandra and Maqtadeer Kaiyum, have denied charges related to the death of John Rusiate, who was allegedly hit by a vehicle in June last year. The charges include murder, attempted murder, assault, criminal intimidation, and conspiracy to defeat the course of justice. The Department of Public Prosecutions will present 15 witnesses during the trial, which is being overseen by Justice Pita Bulamainaivalu at the High Court in Labasa.

Extra Supermarket is set to open in Vanua Levu with a focus on sustainability, utilizing a solar energy system to power its operations. The company emphasizes its commitment to reducing environmental impact and plans to expand its solar capacity. Customers are encouraged to support the brand's sustainable practices, contributing to a greener future.

Passengers commuting between Vanua Levu and Viti Levu have urged the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji to enhance safety audits of vessels after a local shipping company's vessel experienced two breakdowns within a week. Passengers reported engine failures and lack of communication from the crew, leading to delays and safety concerns. Questions sent to the Maritime Safety Authority and the shipping company remain unanswered.

Copra farmers in Vanua Levu, particularly in Cakaudrove, are facing significant challenges due to a stagnant trading period, with many unable to sell their copra for weeks. Despite reassurances from the Ministry of Public Enterprise that operations have normalized, farmers report ongoing issues and lack of communication regarding the copra buying schedule. The Ministry plans to hold village meetings to discuss future programs, but farmers remain concerned about their immediate income needs.

Families and loved ones of serving and retired police officers gathered to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Police Mobile Force in Nasinu. The event, officiated by Lt Col Sophie Waters from the British High Commission in Suva, provided an opportunity to reflect on the unit's history and achievements.

Due to adverse weather, a bus driver in Labasa refused to allow schoolchildren on board, prioritizing other passengers. Students from Naseakula, Tuatua, and Wailevu were told to wait for another bus, leading them to seek intervention from the Land Transport Authority. The bus company defended the driver's actions, stating that priority was given to passengers traveling to Nabekavu. Witnesses, however, claimed the driver only allowed passengers heading to the airport area and Nabekavu.

Landowners in Fiji are increasingly opting for higher premium payments through business investments rather than agricultural leases, driven by the rising value of land. iTaukei Land Trust Board North regional manager Buinimasi Bese highlighted that landowners find commercial leases more lucrative, with a significant investment in Labasa paying $700,000 as a premium. The disparity between lease payments and market value has led to longer negotiation times and a preference for commercial leases. The government has offered installment options for those with lease payment arrears.

A 22-year-old man is being treated at Nabouwalu Hospital after allegedly jumping off an inter-island vessel heading to Natovi Jetty from Nabouwalu. The Ministry of Health confirmed the incident, while Divisional Police Commander North SSP Kemueli Baledrokadroka has yet to receive a report on the matter.

Boat trips to and from Vanua Levu have been cancelled due to strong wind warnings. Passengers traveling to Suva and from Suva had to return home or turn back due to the adverse weather conditions. The national weather forecasting center in Nadi has reinforced its strong wind warning for several regions, including Yasawa, Mamanuca groups, northwestern Viti Levu, Kadavu, and nearby smaller islands.

Kamal Iyer, general secretary of the National Federation Party, accuses former attorney-general Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum of deserting his FijiFirst party and betraying voters following his resignation as the party's general secretary. Iyer criticizes Sayed-Khaiyum's attack on the coalition government and highlights the end of FijiFirst's rule. Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad praises the coalition government for restoring democracy and lifting restrictive laws.

Water shortages in Suva have forced expectant mothers at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital to return home for basic needs. The hospital faced a lack of water in the wards and locked toilets, prompting patients to leave temporarily. The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Water Authority of Fiji and the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, is working to address the water supply issues, prioritizing critical areas like the maternity department. Despite the challenges, hospital staff continue to provide care to patients.

Landowners in Tabia Village, near Labasa Town, have urged the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) to enhance their services, citing issues with land leases issued without consent and poor communication. Villager Amenatave Tavanadua highlighted problems with unauthorized leases on reserved land, while others like Matai Sogolala and Miliana Savua expressed frustrations over delays and lack of prioritization. TLTB regional North manager Buinimasi Bese assured the community that the board would address these concerns in an upcoming meeting.

Sakaraia Vuki's journey from Taveuni, Fiji, to a successful career in Australia highlights his dedication to education and personal growth. Starting as a boarder at Holy Cross College, Vuki's career spanned teaching at Marist Brothers High School in Suva and later at Parramatta Marist High School in Sydney. His experiences underscore the importance of discipline, goal-setting, and adapting to different educational environments. Vuki emphasizes the value of seizing opportunities and continuous self-improvement, advocating for exporting skilled human resources to countries like Australia and New Zealand.

Damodar City has transformed Labasa from a quiet town into a bustling hub, attracting significant foot traffic and boosting local businesses. The $50 million development, including the newly opened Extra Supermarket, has created employment opportunities and spurred economic growth. Commissioner Northern Uraia Rainima and other local leaders express optimism about the town's future, highlighting the project's positive impact on the community. Future investments from RB Patel and the Fiji National Provident Fund are expected to further enhance Labasa's urban landscape.

President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere addressed 6000 Pathfinders in Macuata, emphasizing the significance of the birth of Jesus Christ as a promise to save mankind. The week-long Seventh Day Adventist Pathfinders Camporee in Naravuka focused on the theme of remembering Jesus' ministry. Ratu Wiliame highlighted the importance of living life to the fullest, reflecting on hope, love, peace, and joy during the Advent season. He encouraged Pathfinders to learn by example, develop leadership skills, and explore new ideas. As Fiji's President and Chief Scout, he praised the camporee for providing opportunities for personal growth and community building.

Pathfinder Akeli Leo Rile's body was flown back to Nadi after an emotional farewell at Labasa Airport, led by Pastor Senitki Waqa. Akeli drowned during a water activity at the Seventh Day Adventist Church's Pathfinders Camporee in Naravuka, Macuata.

Lands Minister Filimoni Vosarogo stresses the importance of diligent planning for government-funded projects, citing concerns over taxpayer money. He addresses issues with a commercial subdivision in Labasa, where business owners claim past administrations and contractors failed to complete the work. The project, involving 10 commercial lots, has garnered interest from the business community, and Vosarogo aims to complete it within the financial year to cover costs and meet community confidence in the northern economy.

A landslide at Nakabuta Settlement along Kubulau Road in Wainunu has disrupted bus routes between Kubulau and Wainunu in Bua. Fiji Roads Authority acting chief executive Sonal Goundar stated that efforts are underway to restore main supply and bus routes on the Northern side of Labasa, including Wairiki Crossing in Suweni, Nabiti Nasigasiga Road in Dreketi, Qawa Crossing in Bulileka, and sections along Wainikoro Road in Labasa. Continuous rain has also caused some low-level crossings around Seaqaqa and Navidamu to remain underwater.

New Vision Fiji CEO Rajneet Prasad urges the Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Lynda Tabuya, to visit rural communities to understand the challenges faced by bus fare assistance recipients. Prasad argues against the Coalition Government's plan to remove more people from the assistance program, advocating instead for increased support. He criticizes the government for not conducting public consultations before making such decisions, highlighting the potential negative impact on rural communities.

Labasa residents, particularly in Vunika, Bulileka, and Tovata, are urging the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) to address persistent drainage issues that cause flooding during rains. Residents, including Sami Naicker and Dharmend Prasad, express frustration over blocked drains and flooded roads, which disrupt daily life and pose risks, especially for school children. FRA's acting chief executive, Sonal Goundar, acknowledges the complaints and mentions the installation of additional culverts but cites limitations due to existing infrastructure and road levels. The FRA also advises against dumping household waste in drainage systems.

The Ministry of Sugar has hired a Thailand-based company to address issues at three sugar mills, with repairs costing under $100,000. The company will collaborate with local staff to resolve problems and will return to oversee the work during the crushing season. Future plans include setting up an ethanol plant in Rakiraki and improving the performance of the mills before starting work on the ethanol and sugar refinery plant.

Discussions are underway to extend bus service hours in Labasa, driven by Commissioner Northern Uraia Rainima. This initiative aims to enhance public transport services as part of broader development plans for Vanua Levu, including accommodating shoppers after working hours. The opening of Damodar City has already shown positive economic impacts, and further stakeholder meetings with bus company owners are planned to align with ongoing development efforts.

Damodar City Labasa will open a new cinema tomorrow, with the first movie showing at 10am. Damodar Group CEO Div Damodar confirmed the opening, noting that the technology in the new cinemas is more advanced compared to their other locations in Suva and Lautoka.

Vinesh Kumar, the Ministry of Sugar's permanent secretary for Special Projects, urges farmers to eliminate unapproved cane varieties that are less productive in sugar content. He emphasizes the need to plant approved varieties to enhance sugar production and mentions various programs introduced to support farmers. Kumar also encourages farmers to share their views to help improve taskforce programs.

Labasa magistrate Safaira Ratu has ordered three youths charged with aggravated burglary and theft to be remanded for three days at the Labasa Police Station. The accused, Luke Koroisave, Paulo Madigi, and Josaia Sauliga, allegedly stole items worth $2000 from a teacher’s quarters at Bua College. Defense counsel Kaushik Kumar argued against remanding them at Vaturekuka Remand Centre to avoid exposure to hardened inmates. Ms. Ratu emphasized the need to balance the court's duty to denounce such offenses with the plight of victims, ordering the youths to reflect on their actions while in custody.

Displaced villagers of Nabavatu realized that previous relocation arrangements under the Bainimarama administration were only verbal and lacked concrete plans. Village headman Moriti Waqawaqa noted that despite frequent visits from ministers, no real progress was made. In contrast, the current Coalition Government has initiated meetings with landowning units and started construction work, leading to tangible improvements and a confirmed new site for relocation.

The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) should play a meaningful role in empowering the iTaukei people economically rather than being used as a political tool, according to FijiFirst MP Mosese Bulitavu. He emphasizes the need for the GCC to avoid past practices that encouraged discrimination and poverty, advocating for a more inclusive approach where the government serves all communities equally. Bulitavu suggests rotating the GCC chair position among the three confederacies and making decisions based on consensus to ensure the council remains apolitical.

The reconciliation program for 2024, led by Police Commander Northern Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka, aims to seek forgiveness from church and community leaders on Vanua Levu. Scheduled for New Year's Eve, the initiative underscores the importance of community and church support in law enforcement, advocating for a proactive approach to strengthen bonds with the community.

Archbishop Peter Loy Chong of the Catholic Church in Fiji emphasizes the need for a spiritual dimension in national reconciliation efforts following the country's coups. He asserts that reconciliation must involve victims, including business people affected by the 1987 and 2000 coups. The archbishop supports the United Nations' partnership with the government and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces' plans for reconciliation but stresses the importance of incorporating a spiritual perspective. He believes that true peace and reconciliation can only be achieved through a divine dimension, aligning with the Christian belief that God sides with victims.

President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere expressed gratitude to the Pathfinders for their traditional ceremony and emphasized the importance of the Advent season. He highlighted the value of pathfinding in teaching children through example and encouraged them to develop high moral principles and leadership skills. The camporee, organized by the SDA Church, aims to foster spiritual growth and responsible citizenship among the youth.

Rugby Olympian Sireli Maqala, who is based in France, has returned to Fiji to spend Christmas with his family in Labasa. He expressed his gratitude for being able to be home for the holidays, emphasizing that being with family is the best gift he could receive.

The Labasa Chamber of Commerce in Fiji was found to have been deregistered for the past 13 years when the new president, Vinesh Dayal, and his team took over in September 2023. They have since reinstated the chamber with the Ministry of Industrial Relations and are working with government ministries and former chamber executives to ensure legal compliance and maintain good relationships.

On August 10, 2008, Serafina Silaitoga, a journalist for The Fiji Times, was arrested at her home in Labasa, Fiji, by police officers acting on orders from the interim government. The arrest was related to an article she wrote about then-interim Finance Minister Mahendra Chaudhry. Despite threats and intimidation, Silaitoga and her colleagues stood firm, supported by international media. The truth behind the article was later confirmed by former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. The incident highlights the challenges faced by journalists in Fiji under a repressive regime and underscores the importance of media freedom.

On August 10, 2008, Serafina Silaitoga, a journalist for The Fiji Times, was arrested by Fiji police at her home in Labasa after publishing an article about the then interim Finance Minister Mahendra Chaudhry. The police searched her home and The Fiji Times office for evidence. Despite threats of being locked up, Silaitoga did not reveal her source, and after intervention from Fiji Times lawyers Jon Apted and Richard Naidu, she was released. The incident garnered international attention and support from the media community. Years later, the truth about Chaudhry's resignation, which was the subject of Silaitoga's article, was confirmed by former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.

Elevate Edible Flowers, founded by Natasha Spins, is Fiji's first edible flower company, supplying unique garnishes to chefs and hotels across the country. The company, located in the Gaiatree Sanctuary on Taveuni Island, has developed a range of non-toxic tropical edible flowers and has been operating for over a decade. Chef Lance Seeto has featured their products in his menus, and the company has overcome challenges such as distribution, with help from Fiji Link and Aggie Global. They also offer a Spice Farm Tour, which has been well-received and contributed to their growth.

Forestry Minister Kalaveti Vodo emphasizes the need for stakeholders in the forestry industry to work in partnership and in an integrated manner to bring about real and positive changes. He highlights the importance of investing in forestry training and education to enhance capacities and ensure effective collaboration among scientists, policymakers, foresters, and communities. Vodo underscores the critical contributions of forests to everyday living and the urgent need for sustainable management to benefit current and future generations.

A bus company proprietor, Prakash Sami, highlights the dangers posed by a low bridge in Taveuni, which goes underwater during high tide, risking the lives of passengers and drivers. The issue also affects tourism, preventing access to the popular Tavoro Waterfalls. Despite raising the issue multiple times with the Fiji Roads Authority, no action has been taken to address the problem, leading to operational challenges and increased maintenance costs for the bus company.

Assistant Education Minister Iliesa Vanawalu announced that urgent repair works are necessary for government-owned schools and teachers' quarters in Fiji. He expressed concern over the poor condition of these buildings, noting that previous renovations were insufficient and did not meet expectations. Vanawalu highlighted that 60% of repair work remains to be done, and improvements are also needed for the 40% that was previously repaired. Faith-based school management has also requested repairs.

People have started arriving for the memorial service of the late Professor Brij Lal, including farmers, business owners, hoteliers, villagers of Tabia, and those who traveled from Savusavu and Labasa. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and his deputy Biman Prasad are expected to arrive by midday with the family.

The ashes of the late Professor Brij Lal have arrived in his hometown of Labasa, where a large crowd gathered to welcome his family. Government officials, led by Commissioner Northern Uraia Rainima, greeted the family at the airport. Dr. Lal, visibly emotional, was accompanied by Prof. Lal’s two brothers from Australia and other family members. Prof. Lal’s nephew, Pravin Kumar, expressed the emotional significance of the reunion after thirteen years.

Rina Wati, a 56-year-old woman from Wailevu, Fiji, continues to earn a living by making and selling artificial flowers, a skill she learned from her daughter three years ago. Despite the challenges, including caring for her ill husband, Rina remains dedicated to her craft, which has become popular in Labasa. She receives support from her daughter and previously from businesswoman Amelia Simmons. Rina's business strategy involves creating unique patterns to attract customers and continuously learning new techniques.

Continuous farm raids on Vanua Levu by police have led to the arrest of a 45-year-old farmer in Macuata for unlawful cultivation of illicit drugs. Divisional police commander north Senior Superintendent Viliame Soko thanked the communities for their cooperation in identifying illegal activities. The farmer, from Nabou Settlement, was charged after marijuana plants were found on his cane farm and has been remanded in custody until February 24.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that any changes to the bus fare assistance scheme can only be decided by the Cabinet. Currently, all recipients under the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation remain on the list until a decision is made on January 16. Minister Lynda Tabuya highlighted that the ministry will no longer disburse the standard $25 monthly bus fare but will top up based on usage to prevent abuse of e-ticketing cards.

The article reports on the strong opposition by the traditional landowners of the Vanua o Wainikeli to the World Wave Project in Qamea, Fiji. During the first round of consultations, there were heated exchanges between the landowners and the proponents of the project. Local hoteliers, marine business operators, and qoliqoli customary owners also expressed their objections. The villagers have rejected further consultations and expressed distrust towards the government and the Environment Impact Assessment consultants. One villager, Joseph Stolz, voiced concerns about the impartiality of consultant Helen Sykes. Claude Prevost from Civa Pearls Fiji contributed data from Australian experts indicating potential environmental damage from the project. Sykes acknowledged the concerns and stated her independence as a consultant, while another consultant, Epeli Nasome, mentioned they were following the Department of Environment's procedures.

Professor Patrick Nunn, a climate change scientist, has expressed concern over the lack of understanding of climate change issues in Fiji and other Pacific Island countries. He emphasizes the need for increased awareness outreach to educate communities about the long-term impacts of climate change, which could occur over the next 20 to 50 years. Professor Nunn has observed this gap in understanding during his visits to various communities across the country. The article suggests that readers can find more information on this topic in the latest edition of The Fiji Times or by subscribing to their E-edition.