Pacific

Pacific news in brief for June 12

14:53 pm on 12 June 2024

Small Island Developing States, such as Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Kiribati, are fighting for their future, writes the UNDP resident representative. Photo: UNDP Pacific

Fiji - court

Frank Bainimarama and Sitiveni Qiliho appeared in a Suva court on Monday, relating to a case of police officers allegedly losing their jobs.

Bainimarama is charged with unwarranted demands made by a public official, and Qiliho with two counts of abuse of office.

The State Counsel indicated they will be taking a trial date in the case.

The matter was adjourned until 16 July.

Tuvalu - meeting

Tuvalu Prime Minister Feleti Teo says he is dedicated to making sure the outcomes from the latest Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) meeting are upheld.

In an interview with Tuvalu.TV News, Prime Minister Teo emphasised the SIDS4 Conference provided Tuvalu with a platform to raise awareness about the impacts of sea level rise on the people of Tuvalu.

He advocated for sea level rise to be a prominent item on the agenda of all SIDS meetings, with the hope that other countries affected by this issue would offer their support.

Prime Minister Teo said he is pleased that sea level rise has been confirmed as a topic for the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September.

Fiji - parliament

A FijiFirst member of parliament says party MPs' work has not been affected despite mass resignations.

Those who have resigned include former prime minister Frank Bainimarama, ex-Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and party president Ratu Jo-ji Sata-laka.

Opposition Whip and FijiFirst MP Viliame Naupoto told FBC News he understands there will be some implications to the party, but he will wait to see what they will be.

Registrar of Political Parties Ana Mataiciwa said the party has until 28 June to amend its constitution.

Samoa - court

An author and playwright accused of murdering a fellow writer has appeared in Samoa's Supreme Court.

Sia Figiel is facing a charge of murder and was remanded in custody.

The judge adjourned the case until 17 June for the prosecution to finalise charges and for the defense to file their applications.

Fiji - cyber

Fiji National University is working with cybersecurity certification service EC-Council, to bolster the cybersecurity workforce in Fiji.

In a statement, Fiji's National Training and Productivity Centre acting director said the partnership hopes to make cybersecurity training more accessible.

Bob Mitchell said cybersecurity is crucial because it protects data from theft and damage.

Papua New Guinea - health

Eighteen patients in Papua New Guinea have been given a second chance at life.

They have had surgeries performed by a 10-member team of volunteer medical professionals from PNG Angels, an Australian registered charity.

The Post-Courier reported four children were among the group to receive treatment - they had heart surgeries.

This is the seventh PNG Angels mission.