AGP Executive Report

Public Service Leadership: PM Sitiveni Rabuka told senior public servants that “power is temporary” and “institutions endure,” urging sound judgment and integrity as Fiji launches the Veimataki Leadership Series. Education Accountability: The Ministry of Education is investigating 13 suspected “ghost” teachers after payroll checks, while a separate salary dispute has left 134 teachers affected and community organisers are weighing whether to prioritise 16 left out. Anti-Corruption Court Battle: Fiji’s courts have dismissed FICAC’s bid to add Mohammed Saneem as a fifth witness in the Biman Prasad case, amid a dispute over witness statements and disclosure. Sugar Reform Push: Government says Fiji’s sugar industry needs major reform beyond subsidies, as tonnage and production keep slipping; FSC is also moving toward spray drones to help cane farmers. Digital Transport Payments: Fiji has rolled out QR code payments for bus fares through the eTransport app, adding cardless options and mobile wallet top-ups. Health Crisis Watch: Researchers are urging New Zealand to strengthen its response to Fiji’s rapidly escalating HIV epidemic, calling it a regional health security issue. Climate & Water Prep: Fiji is preparing for possible prolonged dry conditions as El Niño threatens water supplies, with water planning and disaster coordination in focus. Regional Politics: Pacific leaders are pressing Indonesia over a long-awaited UN visit to West Papua, with MSG warning it could review Indonesia’s status if action stalls.

Constitutional Review & Justice: Multi-Ethnic Affairs Minister Charan Jeath Singh says Fiji should restore the death penalty for major drug traffickers, arguing only “drug lords” should face execution and urging the idea be raised during the constitutional review. Public Service Leadership: PM Sitiveni Rabuka tells senior public servants “power is temporary” and urges stewardship of institutions through the Veimataki Leadership Series. Education Crisis: Term 3 starts with renewed calls for students to focus, while 114 teachers affected by salary stoppages are expected to receive pay today and more once contracts are submitted; Rabuka says the issue should never have escalated and Finance will help process payments. Agriculture & Technology: Fiji Sugar Corporation moves toward using spray drones to help cane and non-sugar farmers treat crops in steep, wet areas where tractors struggle. Anti-Corruption Court Fight: Defence for Biman Prasad accuses FICAC of “running repairs” in the Prasad case as the trial over disclosure and witnesses continues. Health Cooperation: Fiji and the UAE discuss a possible new wing for CWM Hospital and child-health support via Dubai Cares. Sports & Youth: Crest Fiji Netball builds team connections ahead of Tonga qualifiers; Fiji Bati keeps a door open for local players; OFC U-16 Women’s Championship kicks off in Solomon Islands with Fiji’s big win. Regional Climate Push: Pacific leaders at Palau summit demand COP31 delivers climate finance and reef protection support. Diplomacy: Naoero (Nauru) opens an embassy in occupied Jerusalem, with Fiji among countries already there.

Teachers’ pay crisis: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the Ministry of Finance will step in so 134 teachers hit by a salary stoppage get their outstanding pay, after Education payroll verification found missing appointment paperwork. Child protection emergency: Save the Children Fiji is urging Fiji to treat child sexual violence as a national crisis, calling for stronger prevention, protection, justice and accountability. Health expansion: Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Heart Hospital will extend specialised cardiac services to adults and adolescents, aiming to reduce the need for costly overseas treatment. El Niño readiness: Government agencies are being told to prepare early for possible El Niño conditions, with closer coordination to protect essential services. Energy push: EPC Renewables and Grupo Cobra have signed MOUs with Energy Fiji for a major solar-plus-battery project (Yaqara), targeting commercial operations by 2029. Sports—BOG and OFC U16: Nasinu books a BOG semi-final after a seven-year wait, while Fiji’s U16 women start with an 11-0 win over the Cook Islands as Adi Reva scores five. Corruption court clash: A magistrate sharply criticised FICAC over adding a new witness in the Biman Prasad trial. Climate diplomacy: Pacific leaders reaffirmed the 1.5°C goal and pushed for urgent climate action ahead of COP31. GBV focus: Fiji’s GBV prevalence rate is cited as calls grow for men and communities to take a stronger role in prevention.

Mental Health & Servicewomen: Women’s Minister Sashi Kiran says Fiji can’t expect servicewomen to protect others without proper psychological support, pointing to trauma, harassment, domestic violence and family pressures that can follow personnel home. RHD Alarm: Rheumatic heart disease deaths in Fiji are rising (about 60 to 71 a year), with health teams expanding screening in schools, antenatal clinics and communities using handheld echo machines. Reintegration After Prison: President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu calls stigma “a second prison,” urging communities to help former inmates rebuild through support beyond corrections. GBV Push: Kiran cites a 64% national GBV prevalence rate and urges men, churches, traditional institutions and communities to help prevent violence. Drugs in Schools: Education Minister Aseri Radrodro says school drug testing is only under initial consultation and would require parental consent; teachers warn against punitive-only approaches. Tourism Slump: Fiji tourism earnings fell 4.9% in the June quarter to $708.1m, though they rose versus the March quarter. Crime & Drugs Data: Fiji’s meth use hit a record high in April (per wastewater testing), though later data showed a drop in June. Foreign Exchange Warning: Reserve Bank of Fiji warns the public to use only licensed foreign exchange dealers to avoid fraud and loss. Pacific Climate Diplomacy: Fiji urges stronger Pacific participation in COP31 discussions, with Tuvalu highlighted as a key bridge to global action. Sports & Youth: Fiji’s U16 women’s Reva delivers a five-goal haul; Team Fiji defends its Restaurant Challenge title in Australia.

Pacific Diplomacy Under Pressure: China’s Taiwan push is spilling into the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, with Fiji and other members sending ministers while some leaders skip the summit, as officials warn the region’s unity is being tested. Border Security vs Sovereignty: Fiji Revenue and Customs says the proposed Vuvale Union and Veitacini Treaty must deliver measurable results for Fiji’s border and revenue systems, with stronger local protection of technology and decision-making. Constitution Review Debate: Opposition leader Inia Seruiratu faces pushback from Minister Filimoni Vosarogo over claims about public participation in Fiji’s constitutional review process. Health—RHD Alarm: Fiji is urging early action on rheumatic heart disease, warning delayed treatment can cause lifelong damage, especially for children and young people. Sugarcane Logistics: Government plans GPS tracking for sugarcane locomotive operations next year to tackle delays and alleged driver misconduct. Finance Watch: The Reserve Bank of Fiji warns the public to use only licensed foreign exchange dealers, saying unlicensed activity is a criminal offence. Community & Culture: The Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North raised $341,015.75 for health and North services, while SJSS alumni begin a 70-year platinum jubilee reunion.

Education Accountability: Opposition MP Premila Kumar says teachers should not lose salaries over Education Ministry administrative failures after an audit found signed permanent appointment contracts were not returned and processed, leaving 134 teachers unpaid. Treaty Transparency: Fiji’s Vuvale Treaty talks have drawn criticism after the Prime Minister’s Office admitted the public was not directly consulted, with negotiations handled through ministries and legal experts. Border and Defence Questions: Parliament heard the proposed Ocean of Peace Alliance still leaves key issues unclear, including what counts as an “armed attack” in cyber or hybrid warfare, while the Veitacini Treaty also won’t override Fiji’s domestic decision-making. Vuvale Mobility Limits: The Vuvale Union Treaty is not a visa-free guarantee for travel to Australia, with officials saying identity and border management must come first. Pacific Climate Push: At the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, leaders backed stronger climate action and called for 24-hour notice for missile tests, rebuking China’s ICBM launch. Scholarships & Community: Eight Fijians secured UK Government scholarships; Fiji also highlighted community-led solutions for biodiversity and showcased inmate rehabilitation through art. Sports: New Zealand beat Fiji 2-0 to reach the OFC U-19 Men’s semi-finals; and the Fijian Drua’s coaching pathway is framed as building homegrown professional development.

Pacific Climate Push: At the Palau summit closing ceremony, Pacific Islands Forum leaders again flagged climate change as the biggest threat, backing COP31 work and urging the region to keep the 1.5°C goal within reach. Defence Treaty Questions: Fiji’s proposed Ocean of Peace Alliance still leaves gaps on what counts as an “armed attack,” with lawmakers pressing on cyber and hybrid threats and what remedies exist if a partner fails. Education Payroll Shock: In Fiji, 134 teachers lost pay after appointment papers weren’t returned in time, while 13 “ghost employees” were also found in a Ministry of Education payroll check. Corrections Rehabilitation: The Fiji Corrections Service used its “Behind the Walls” art exhibition to support inmate rehabilitation and reintegration under the Yellow Ribbon Project. Regional Economy & Food: The Pacific’s “Tuna Bites” campaign is rolling out across island states to celebrate tuna’s role in food security, with Fiji among the participating countries. Sports: New Zealand booked the OFC U-19 Men’s semi-finals after beating Fiji 2-0, while Fiji’s Junior All Whites fought hard in Apia.

Education Accountability: Fiji’s Ministry of Education payroll check found 13 “ghost employees” and stopped salaries for 134 officers after missing permanent appointment paperwork surfaced, raising fresh questions about record-keeping and public spending. Constitution & Defence Treaty Scrutiny: Parliament pressed the government on the proposed Ocean of Peace Alliance, with officials saying the treaty won’t override Fiji’s domestic decisions—but lawmakers also warned Fiji could be left without a legal remedy if obligations aren’t honoured. Pacific Climate Push: Pacific leaders meeting in Palau issued the Belau Declaration calling for urgent action to keep 1.5°C alive, more climate finance, and stronger preparation for droughts and extreme weather. China Missile & Forum Unity: Leaders “registered concern” about China’s July ballistic missile test, but the statement wasn’t unanimous, highlighting fractures in regional geopolitics. Sports & Youth Pathways: The OFC U-16 Women’s Championship kicks off in the Solomon Islands with Fiji among eight teams chasing a route to the 2027 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Health & Nutrition: Research on older Fijians found high carbohydrate intake and low protein, urging more protein-rich foods to support healthy ageing. Business & Everyday Investing: SPX CEO Sheraj Obeyesekere says ordinary Fijians can invest in shares without being wealthy, with small shareholdings still making people shareholders in local companies.

Pacific Climate Push: Pacific Islands Forum leaders in Palau backed urgent global action to keep 1.5°C alive, calling for faster fossil-fuel cuts, more climate finance, and stronger ocean-climate work ahead of COP31. Missile Test Diplomacy: Leaders “registered concern” over China’s July ballistic missile launch, but the statement wasn’t unanimous, with Nauru dissent and Kiribati absent. Regional Ocean Stance: The Forum strengthened Pacific positions on ocean sovereignty, fisheries, deep-sea minerals and marine pollution, urging coordinated action and preparations for the BBNJ talks. Fiji Policy & Costs: Fiji launched a Basic Tariff Literacy Toolkit to help businesses understand regulated price decisions, while a new Tourism Services Tax adds potential costs for visitors. Health Watch: Fiji’s rheumatic heart disease support report says 4,984 people live with the condition, with children most affected. Sports Spotlight: Fiji’s Extra Battle of the Giants kicked off with Suva’s Gagame Feni scoring a hat-trick; Fiji also named a strong 40-man squad for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. Justice & Governance: FICAC’s Biman Prasad trial continues, with directorship documents allowed as the case proceeds.

Veitacini Treaty Scrutiny: Fiji MPs questioned what Fiji will contribute in return for Australia’s $1.5b defence funding under the Veitacini Treaty, with officials saying Fiji funds what it can while Australia fills gaps—raising concerns about independence and whether Australia is already funding ministries. Constitution Referendum Bill: The Referendum Bill is set to be “dealt with” this weekend as Fiji moves toward its first referendum on constitutional change, but MPs and the public still want clarity on timing and understanding. CRC Report Politics: Unity Fiji leader Savenaca Narube accused PM Rabuka of using the Constitutional Review Commission report to stoke fear over race and religion; Defence and Women’s Minister Filimoni Vosarogo hit back, calling the claims irresponsible. Pacific Missile Test Stance: Pacific Islands Forum leaders again stopped short of condemning China’s July missile test, choosing “register concern” instead—Palau’s chair said the issue will be discussed further, while Nauru dissented. Drug Trafficking Crackdown: Australia pledged $600m for Pacific surveillance to target narco-submarines and small vessels, aiming to disrupt cocaine routes toward Australia. Local Environment Warning: More than 1,000kg of rubbish—including used syringes—was cleared from Vatuwaqa creek, with the minister warning illegal dumping puts clean-up workers at risk and reminding the public of the $200 litter fine. Fiji Sports: Fiji Bati named a 40-member extended Rugby League World Cup squad featuring NRL stars; Roy Krishna urged fans to pack 4R Stadium for the 2026 Battle of the Giants. Sugar Digital Push: Fiji’s sugar sector rolled out a digital management system and chatbot to improve transparency, cut costs, and support women and vulnerable growers. Health Update: Fiji reports 1 in 50 children could have rheumatic heart disease, with screening and early detection efforts expanding.

Constitution Watch: Fiji’s Constitution Review Commission report is set to go to Cabinet next week, but the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre says it must be released immediately, arguing secrecy fuels speculation. Public Health: Parents are being urged to watch for rheumatic heart disease symptoms in children, as RHD is estimated to affect about one in 50 schoolchildren. Environment & Enforcement: Fiji’s new $200 litter fine is now in force, with calls growing for councils to clean up and do better on rubbish collection. Regional Security: Fiji is set to receive a $284m push to tackle meth and cocaine networks, including stronger intelligence-sharing and digital forensics support. Police Reform: Proposed changes would allow police body-worn camera footage to be admitted in court if the Police Bill passes. Climate Resilience: A new EU-UNICEF $43.4m programme will upgrade Pacific schools to better withstand climate disasters, with Fiji among the direct beneficiaries. Weather Alert: Strong wind warnings are in effect for several parts of Fiji, including coastal and island areas.

Constitution Review: PM Sitiveni Rabuka says Fiji’s Constitutional Review Commission report will be released to the public only after Cabinet review, with Cabinet receiving it on Sept 9 and the Government promising full presentation before Parliament debate. Kava Bill 2026: Rabuka also insists the Kava Bill is not law yet, with a parliamentary committee set to hold public consultations before any third reading. Pacific security push: Pacific leaders were urged to turn security declarations into real results, with calls for stronger political will and faster intelligence-sharing to tackle drugs, cyber threats and transnational crime. Climate pressure on islands: UN-backed warnings say the world is on track to exceed 1.5°C soon, threatening food and water security across the Pacific, as leaders in Palau press for urgent action ahead of pre-COP talks in Fiji and Tuvalu. US investment in the Pacific: The US announced a $150m package at the Pacific Islands Forum, including energy security and infrastructure support, with Tonga highlighting the Pacific Resilience Facility as a “game-changer.” Tourism tax update: Fiji’s new 5% Tourism Services Tax will spare existing holiday bookings, easing concerns for travellers while the levy continues for new bookings from Sept 1. Flying Fijians: Fiji’s Flying Fijians step up preparations in Nadi for the Pacific Nations Cup, with British defence coach David Ellis joining the interim coaching set-up.

Pacific Climate Push: Australia’s PM Anthony Albanese defended low turnout for the Fiji–Tuvalu pre-COP climate meeting, saying it will still “elevate” Pacific realities ahead of COP31. Climate Warning: A UN report says the world will exceed 1.5°C warming within years, raising risks for island nations. PIF Tensions: The Pacific Islands Forum in Palau opened amid leader no-shows and China–Taiwan friction, with Fiji’s PM Rabuka denying any China influence on his absence. Fiji Tourism Tax: Fiji’s new 5% Tourism Services Tax will spare existing holiday bookings, easing pressure on travellers while the government says it’s needed to keep Fiji Airways flying. US–Fiji Visa Talks: Fiji proposed a technical working group with the US to set benchmarks toward removing the visa bond requirement. Health & Justice: Fiji corrections facilities recorded 206 confirmed HIV cases, while Rabuka says the Constitution Review report will be made public next week. Security in the North: New police posts are under construction in Vanua Levu and Taveuni to tackle drugs and violence.

Constitution Review: Opposition MPs and civil society are pushing back on PM Sitiveni Rabuka’s call for calm over Fiji’s Constitution Review Commission report, saying the public still hasn’t seen the full document and draft constitution—fueling uncertainty over key issues like minority rights and the secular state. Prison Health Tech: Fiji is rolling out PATIS/PATISPlus to put correctional health data at officials’ fingertips, aiming to improve continuity of care and planning while stressing strict confidentiality for inmates. Heart Health Push: World Heart Month messaging highlights Fiji’s heavy NCD burden—high blood sugar, diabetes, obesity, tobacco use, and excess salt intake—urging earlier action to prevent strokes and heart attacks. Drug Fight in the Pacific: Australia is set to announce a $600m Pacific-wide push to tackle cocaine and meth trafficking, including more aerial surveillance and police training under the Waqa Moana initiative. Online Safety: Government is considering tougher age checks for adult websites, warning that “confirming you’re 18” isn’t enough as more people come online. Sugar Harvesting: Labour shortages are driving a trial of mechanical harvesters for hilly cane farms, with machines tested before farmers invest. FICAC Court Delay: Former deputy PM Biman Prasad’s trial was delayed after objections to a disputed FICAC document.

Pacific Diplomacy in Palau: The 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting is underway with major absences, while China warns of “consequences” over Taiwan’s presence at the opening ceremony—Australia and New Zealand push back, saying the forum decides its own attendance. Fiji Constitution Transparency: The Fiji Labour Party demands the full Constitution Review Commission report and Draft Constitution Bill be released publicly, arguing secrecy is undermining legitimacy and equal citizenship. Digital Health in Corrections: Fiji launches PATISPlus to connect prison healthcare to the national system, aiming for better continuity of care for people in custody and after release. Online Safety for Children: Fiji is considering tougher age checks for adult websites, moving beyond simple “over 18” boxes as connectivity expands. Health Watch: Fijians are consuming about 10g of salt daily—double the WHO recommendation—prompting discussion of potassium-enriched salt and stronger food labelling. Rugby Update: David Ellis is appointed interim Defence Coach for the Flying Fijians ahead of the Pacific Nations Cup. Sports & Youth: The OFC U-19 Men’s Championship begins in Samoa with Fiji in Pool B, chasing two World Cup qualification spots. Business & Tourism: Fiji-grown Bula Coffee heads to London for a speciality market push, while Fiji’s tourism sector keeps momentum despite fuel shock pressures.

Constitution Watch: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka urged Fijians to stay calm after the Constitutional Review Commission handed over its recommendations, stressing they are not yet Government decisions and promising protections for all faiths as Cabinet weighs next steps. Regional Politics: Tension flared at the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau as China warned of “consequences” over Taiwan’s foreign minister attending the opening ceremony, while Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale faces a no-confidence motion back home. Water Crisis: Taveuni residents say worsening water shortages are hitting homes and raising fears ahead of school reopening, with some paying about $300 for water carting. Public Health: Fiji’s health leaders are also looking outward—Fiji’s Deputy PM Kamikamica urged Pacific neighbours to learn from Fiji’s costly HIV crisis and share research earlier to stop outbreaks spreading. Tourism & Standards: Fiji’s hotel and tourism sector is pushing for globally recognised sustainability and service standards to boost competitiveness. Business Pulse: Fiji recorded growth in active businesses, with transport and storage leading the rise. Tech & Investment: Government says Google’s Natadola subsea landing and data centre project is progressing after landowner engagement and legal processes.