Budget Debate Fallout: Opposition MPs Hem Chand and Premila Kumar reject Fiji’s 2026-27 National Budget, arguing it fails families and fuels brain drain, with Kumar calling it fiscally irresponsible amid a projected deficit rising to 7% of GDP and higher borrowing. Education & Health Pressure Points: The Education Ministry says it’s fixing teacher salary delays and staffing issues, while dental graduates complain of more than six months’ internship posting delays; meanwhile, rising HIV diagnoses and cancer patients’ overseas radiotherapy costs are driving new health priorities. Energy & Infrastructure: Energy Fiji Limited outlines a $2bn renewable push to cut fuel dependence, aiming for 60% renewables by 2030 and 90% by 2035, and temporarily closes its Nausori customer office after a sewage pipe burst. Tourism & Aviation Moves: Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka defends a leaner tourism budget as “more strategic” spending, and Fiji Airways ends its MoU with FHTA, shifting to direct deals with hotels. Trade, Skills & Governance: Japan will support Fiji customs with a dedicated liaison officer; a skills crisis push calls for a national steering committee led by Finance; and the Foreign Affairs budget is being tied to measurable economic returns. Regional & Security Context: A Chinese submarine-launched missile test in the South Pacific sparks wider Pacific security debate, while Fiji’s Lau chiefs want tighter monitoring of foreign yachts. Sports & Community: FRU expects Saweni stadium land premium to be paid from England-game profits, and Labasa targets another crucial win in Round 14.