Biggest crisis

AS economies start to feel the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, it is clear that we are today facing the biggest crisis in human history.

Whatever the outcome of this pandemic may be, what is certain is that it will make permanent changes and imprint permanent impact on mankind forever.

We are no longer only closing borders with China. Various countries are closing their borders with other countries. US President Donald Trump has even declared closing borders with Europe sending shock waves at Wall Street.

Multi-billion dollar sports such as the European Cup, NBA, Grand Prix are now all cancelled. In rugby, the World Rugby Sevens Series is affected. Test matches between countries are now put on hold. The Olympic Games, which Tokyo had earlier confirmed will still go ahead, is now in question after Japan recorded more than 800 infections and over 20 deaths.

International flights are affected like never before. Schools and universities in many countries are now closed. Many international events are postponed. Even the Pope has called for the cancellation of Sunday mass after Italy recorded over 20,000 infections and over 1400 deaths.

Here in our tiny Fiji, Government has done all it can to keep our people safe. So far, no positive case of coronavirus has been recorded. But judging by its rate of spread worldwide, it should be just a matter of time before it arrives on our shores.

For Fiji to survive unblemished from this oncoming pandemic, we must stand strong, pray and stand together in days to come. There is no room for:  petty issues;

 for finger-pointing;

 seeking cheap political points;

 witch hunting;

 spreading lies, racism or hatred; and

 fabrication or twisting of facts.

The coronavirus does not choose its victims on ethnic, religious, cultural, social status, political, age, sex, sins or on their righteousness. It infects anyone.

This is why we must all work together and unite to counter it.

TIMOCI GAUNAVINAKA

Lal Singh Rd, Waila, Nausori