The Government of Fiji is increasingly alarmed by the rising occurrence of road accidents and fatalities in the country this year, reporting a worrying increase in deaths from 51 to 65 compared to the same period last year—an increase of 14 lives lost. Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, condemned this trend as “unacceptable and deeply troubling,” remarking on society’s dangerous disregard for traffic laws and road safety.
Vosarogo pointed to persistent issues such as speeding, drunken driving, careless overtaking, and the use of mobile phones while behind the wheel. These concerns were reinforced by some recent tragic accidents, like the one in Tavua that claimed the life of a young Vatukoula man.
In response to this alarming situation, the Acting Prime Minister announced that the government would undertake a review of existing road use and driver licensing laws. Proposed changes may include stricter eligibility and re-testing requirements, harsher penalties for reckless driving, measures for license cancellation and imprisonment for repeat offenders, increased roadside checks, and enhanced driver education and rehabilitation programs.
“This rise in fatalities signifies a lack of respect for the value of human life,” Vosarogo stated while emphasizing that each fatality affects families and friends profoundly. He reiterated that driving should be viewed as a privilege, cautioning that the government would not hesitate to implement stricter laws if irresponsible driving persists.
Moreover, Vosarogo mentioned that road safety is a collective responsibility shared among the government, law enforcement, and every road user. The collaboration between various authorities, including the Ministry of Transport and the Fiji Police Force, is aimed at developing a comprehensive framework to address these safety concerns and reverse the troubling trend.
With determination to improve the situation, Vosarogo concluded by asserting the government’s commitment to prioritizing the safety of the people, vowing to implement decisive actions that would protect lives on Fiji’s roads.
Fiji’s current road safety crisis reflects ongoing challenges but also highlights the need for community engagement and reforms. While the increasing fatalities present a grim reality, the proactive measures being considered by the Fijian government offer a hopeful path forward to foster safer driving environments that protect lives in the future.