There will be no street parties in Sigatoka and Nadi to herald in the New Year.
This is because of a death of a Nadroga chief and the lack of interest in Nadi to host the annual event.
Sigatoka Town chief executive officer Tulsi Ram said they cancelled their party to pay respect to the late Ratu Tevita Makutu – former deputy mayor and councillor and a paramount chief of Nadroga.
“The late Ratu Tevita Makutu was a good friend.
“He was a landowner and a former councillor and deputy mayor. It is not even 40 days yet after he died and it is best we cancel the celebration and have the town respect his death.”
He said the cancellation would allow family members to spend the New Year celebration together.
“There have been a lot of road accidents and reported case like rapes, so it would be safe for the people of Sigatoka to spend New Year at home with their children and families.

No application for Nadi street party
Nadi Town Council special administrator Robin Ali also confirmed that Nadi would not hold its New Year street party.
Mr Ali revealed that no application for permit or expression of interest was received to host a street party.
“There is no one so far that has responded to us or given us a feedback that they would want to host the street party. This clearly shows that no one is interested,” Mr Ali said.
Meanwhile, Rakiraki, Tavua, Ba and Lautoka will have street parties to welcome the New Year.

Edited by Maikeli Seru
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