Author: admin_fijitimes

Energy Fiji Limited has confirmed that proposed power rationing measures have been deferred following the approval of an interim electricity fuel surcharge by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission. The interim fuel surcharge, which takes effect from today, adds 5.91 cents per kilowatt-hour across electricity customer categories and is aimed at helping offset rising global fuel costs impacting Fiji’s power sector. EFL says the surcharge represents only a partial recovery of the extraordinary increase in international fuel prices, as the country continues to rely on imported fuel for between 45 to 50 percent of electricity generation. The company says dry…

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Fiji’s Parliament has passed the Education Bill 2025, introducing sweeping changes to the country’s education system and replacing the Education Act of 1966 after nearly six decades. The new legislation establishes an updated legal framework that strengthens the right to education for all Fijians, covering every stage of learning from Early Childhood Education to primary, secondary, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and higher education. Among the major changes is the creation of an Education Advisory Council, which will provide policy guidance and give stakeholders a greater role in shaping the direction of the education sector. The law also…

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The Government has defended its decision to maintain fuel-related taxes despite mounting pressure from rising global oil prices, saying a complete removal of duties would cost the country more than $150 million in revenue and weaken essential public services. Delivering an update in Parliament this morning, Fiji’s Minister for Finance Esrom Emmanuel said Government had chosen what he described as a “balanced and fiscally responsible approach” in responding to the ongoing global fuel crisis. The Minister said while Government had already introduced targeted relief measures for bus operators, electricity generation and shipping services, fuel taxes remained a major source of…

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The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has urged Fijians to avoid non-essential travel to several Central African nations following concerns over the spread of Ebola-related illnesses in the region. Countries listed in the advisory include the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and neighbouring states sharing land borders such as South Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Zambia, Angola, Republic of the Congo and the Central African Republic. Travellers heading to affected areas have been advised to avoid contact with sick individuals and wild animals, refrain from eating bushmeat, and maintain strict hygiene practices including regular handwashing. Health authorities are…

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Fijians seeking Government support for overseas medical treatment must complete a detailed screening and financial assessment process before assistance is approved. Speaking in Parliament, Minister for Health and Medical Services Atonio Lalabalavu said patients must first prove that the required treatment is unavailable in Fiji. Applications must include a medical report prepared or endorsed by a specialist, outlining the patient’s medical history, diagnosis, recommended overseas treatment, expected outcome, and supporting test results such as scans, X-rays, and blood reports. Applicants are also required to undergo a financial assessment to determine whether they can personally fund the treatment. Only individuals earning…

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The High Court has again adjourned judgment in the murder case involving accused Apisai Madigibuli. Madigibuli is charged with allegedly murdering his pregnant wife, 26-year-old Kitiana Baravilala, by stabbing her multiple times at a Suva Apartment in April, 2024. The matter was called before Justice Dane Tuiqereqere at the Suva High Court this morning. Justice Tuiqereqere informed the court that the trial transcript is still not ready and apologised for the delay. State Counsel Shadaf Shameem appeared for the prosecution. Madigibuli represented himself during proceedings and elected to remain silent. The matter has been adjourned to next Thursday, the 4th…

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Actor Ranveer Singh has finally reacted to the ongoing controversy surrounding his reported exit from Don 3 after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees announced a non-cooperative directive against him. The actor’s official spokesperson released a statement addressing the situation and clarified Ranveer’s stance amid the growing debate online.On May 25, 2026, during a press conference, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees, widely known as FWICE, revealed that members of the federation would not cooperate with Ranveer Singh until the Don 3 matter is resolved. The development sparked strong reactions across social media, with many fans expressing disappointment…

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Veteran actor Meenakshi Seshadri has revealed that she has officially relocated back to India after spending nearly three decades abroad. The actor, who stepped away from Bollywood at the peak of her career in the late 1990s, shared that she is now looking forward to restarting her journey in the entertainment industry with fresh opportunities in films and OTT platforms.Meenakshi’s decision to leave the film industry after marriage has remained one of Bollywood’s most discussed exits over the years. In 1995, the actor married investment banker Harish Mysore and moved to the United States, gradually distancing herself from the Hindi…

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