Celebrated not just for his voice but as a cultural icon, Fiji — as he was fondly known — was described as “a beacon of light in challenging times” and “a voice for the people.”

“In the last 20 years, we have completely destroyed our public health system. That is what we (Coalition Government) inherited here.”

The women, who were not known to the man, reported the alleged conduct to airline staff and were moved to different seats while the crew monitored the man for the remainder of the flight.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka also moved a motion to establish a Special Committee on the Sugar Industry—a key move drawn from the budget address.

Reinforcing the importance of regional cooperation, Prof. Prasad advocated for a visa-free Blue Pacific, coordinated relocation policies, marine protection strategies, and climate-resilient development.

An ongoing immigration crackdown targeting undocumented migrants in major U.S. cities has further intensified fears across the Pacific.

For many Pacific Islanders, visa applications are not just complicated — they are costly and can be emotionally draining.

The attack took place around 2 PM on Friday, 11 July 2025, when a 28-year-old man allegedly entered the temple through a side entrance and used an iron rod to smash century-old idols of Lord Shiva and other deities.

The suspect was arrested on-site and has since been referred for psychiatric evaluation.

“They weren’t just breaking idols; they were breaking something that means so much to us.”