The Government of Fiji expresses its grave concern over the alarming number of road accidents and fatalities recorded this year.
The latest data from the Fiji Police Force, the national road death toll now stands at 65 lives lost, compared to 51 during the same period last year, an increase of 14 deaths.
“This rise in numbers is unacceptable and deeply troubling. It reveals an ongoing disregard for traffic laws, road safety measures, and the value of human life. Despite ongoing awareness campaigns and visible policing efforts, many drivers continue to engage in dangerous behavior such as speeding, drink driving, careless overtaking, and using mobile phones while behind the wheel,” said Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Hon. Filimoni Vosarogo.
“Yesterday, a tragic accident in Tavua claimed the life of a 24-year-old man from Vatukoula when the vehicle he was travelling in veered off the road and struck a tree. He worked in the mine in Vatukoula and his family have lost a breadwinner.”
In a separate accident last night along Vunakece Road in Namadi Heights, Suva, another serious crash occurred, again, showing evidence of recklessness, indifference or both by one or all the drivers involved in the accident.
The Acting Prime Minister said the Government is issuing a stern warning it will review the laws governing road use and the issuance of driver licences. This review may include:
• Stricter eligibility and re-testing requirements for new and existing licence holders.
• Harsher penalties for drunk and reckless driving including minimum imprisonment term.
• Cancellation of licenses for repeat offenders and imprisonment term for driving with a canceled licence.
• Increased roadside checks and enforcement operations.
• The introduction of advanced driver education and rehabilitation programs.
“The current trajectory is unacceptable,” Hon. Vosarogo said. “We cannot continue to lose lives at this rate and treat these deaths as statistics. Every fatality represents a son, daughter, parent, or friend whose life has been cut short and whose family must now live with that pain.”
The Acting Prime Minister also stressed that road safety is a shared responsibility between government, law enforcement, and every road user. While government continues to invest in road upgrades, signage, and awareness programs, these efforts are futile if drivers do not change their attitude and behavior.
“Driving is a privilege not a right. With that privilege comes responsibility,” he added. “We urge all motorists to obey the speed limits, avoid alcohol before driving, stay alert, and prioritize the safety of others on the road. If drivers show irresponsibility, government has no hesitation to amend and enforce laws to remove your privilege to drive permanently.”
He further noted that the Government through the Ministry of Transport, and Land Transport Authority will work with the Fiji Police Force to develop a more comprehensive road safety framework aimed at reversing this disturbing trend.
“Deaths on our roads must come to an end,” Hon. Vosarogo concluded. “The safety of our people is paramount, and Government will not hesitate to take strong and decisive action, including amending the laws to protect lives on our roads.”