Fiji Seizes Undeclared Firearms; PNG Students Fight for Exams

The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) discovered undeclared firearms aboard a foreign-flagged yacht that arrived at Savusavu Port on October 9, 2023. During an inspection, customs officials found two semi-automatic pistols, 30 C02 cartridges, and 1,138 pellets that had not been declared by the yacht’s skipper. The matter has been referred to police for further investigation. The FRCS reminds all travelers, including yacht owners and sailors, to submit accurate and complete declarations when providing advance arrival information.

In political developments, Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka confirmed that he would appear before the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The commission aims to foster open dialogue regarding Fiji’s political upheavals dating back to 1987. Rabuka indicated his willingness to share his experiences, opting for a public hearing. The commission commenced its public hearings in Suva on October 3, 2023. While attendance is not mandatory, commission chairman Sekove Nagiollevu extended an invitation for Rabuka to speak.

In Papua New Guinea, a troubling situation has arisen as 27 out of 32 grade 10 students from a school in Kimbe have been barred from sitting for their national examinations due to unpaid school fees. The outstanding fees for these students total more than K55,000 (approximately US$13,079). Reports from The National newspaper indicate that these students sought assistance from local police to enable them to take their exams. Education Secretary Uke Kombra has urged the school to allow the students to participate in the examinations. Education adviser Vincent Kalatia confirmed that the students would be permitted to sit for the remaining exam papers this week, addressing the immediate crisis. Additionally, 55 grade 12 students owe the school K70,000 (around US$16,654) in fees.

On the social media front, Papua New Guinea’s National Executive Council approved a new National Social Media Policy on October 9, 2023. Acting Information and Communications Technology Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr announced that the policy would establish clear guidelines for user accountability and responsibility, including age restrictions. It also introduces penalties for cyber harassment, defamation, and the spread of misinformation. Tsiamalili emphasized that the policy aims to balance freedom of expression with safety and accountability in the digital realm.

In New Zealand, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has ruled out merging the Ministry for Pacific Peoples with other government departments, despite ongoing public sector cuts intended to reduce government spending. Speaking on PMN’s Pacific Mornings, Luxon stated that while the Public Service Commission is reviewing public sector spending, any merger involving the Ministry is not on the agenda during his term. Since the current government took office in 2023, the Ministry for Pacific Peoples has faced budget cuts exceeding NZ$60 million, resulting in a staff reduction from 156 to 99 employees.

These developments reflect ongoing challenges and responses within the Pacific region, highlighting the importance of accountability, education, and governance in shaping the futures of these communities.