The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) is embroiled in controversy following the arrest of its commissioner, Barbara Malimali, by her own staff. The incident has sparked a social media backlash, complicating Malimali's ability to perform her duties. Her former deputy, Francis Puliewai, who ordered the arrest, argues that Malimali was not suitable for the position. The situation highlights internal conflicts within FICAC and raises questions about the organization's leadership and decision-making processes.

The Miss Universe Fiji pageant has sparked controversy after the initial winner, Manshika Prasad, was dethroned in favor of runner-up Nadine Roberts, leading to allegations of conspiracy and vote-rigging. The incident has drawn significant attention in Fiji and the Pacific, where pageantry holds cultural importance. Andhy Blake, a prominent pageant director, calls for stricter regulations, while the Fiji government investigates the matter. The controversy highlights broader issues within Pacific pageantry, including cultural representation and support for the LGBTQ community, as discussed by figures like Joey Joleen Mataele and Brianna Fruen.

Fiji is grappling with a methamphetamine crisis as drug cartels exploit its isolated ports to traffic drugs to Australia and New Zealand. The influx of meth has led to a national crisis, affecting children and communities. A significant drug bust highlighted the scale of the problem, with authorities struggling to combat the sophisticated operations of traffickers. The Fijian navy and police face challenges due to limited resources and vast ocean territories. Community leaders and government officials emphasize the urgent need for action to protect future generations from the growing drug menace.

TechCamp Australia is a two-day interactive workshop hosted by the Centre for Media Transition at the University of Technology, Sydney, in partnership with the U.S. Embassy and Consulate. The event aims to bring together news media experts and participants from various Pacific regions to co-create solutions and strategies to combat online misinformation and disinformation. Through hands-on demonstrations and training, participants will brainstorm low-cost, easy-to-implement technologies and strategies to address local challenges in digital journalism.

A sudden reshuffle in Vanuatu's government has led to the departure of Climate Minister Ralph Regenvanu, following the Union of Moderates Political Party's exit from the government. In Samoa, the minimum wage has been increased by one tala, though opinions are divided on its sufficiency. A new township is planned in Mulitaka, Enga Province, to accommodate families displaced by a landslide. In Tonga, there are ongoing complaints about the lack of regulation over whale watching operators, prompting a petition for government action. Additionally, a high chief in Vanuatu calls for the removal of a sacred head-dress from the National Museum, citing cultural degradation. Meanwhile, I-Kiribati citizens are preparing to vote in their national election.

Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is embarking on a diplomatic tour starting with a state visit to China to meet Premier Xi Jinping. This marks his first visit to Beijing since taking office. Following China, Rabuka will travel to New Caledonia as part of a high-level Pacific envoy and then proceed to Tonga for the Pacific Leaders meeting. Rabuka aims to learn from China's development initiatives, particularly their poverty alleviation programs.

Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is embarking on a state visit to China, marking his first trip to Beijing since taking office in late 2022. This visit initiates a diplomatic tour that includes travel to New Caledonia as part of a high-level Pacific envoy, followed by participation in the Pacific Leaders meeting in Tonga. The article also briefly mentions ongoing police investigations in Papua New Guinea and Fiji's recent Olympic success.

The FijiFirst Party faces potential dissolution following its deregistration, with some of its 26 MPs, including Aliki Bia, declaring themselves as independent members. The party has a two-week period to appeal the decision, but the political landscape is already shifting as members adjust to the new reality.

A salvage operation is underway in Fiji to recover the patrol boat Puamau, which ran aground on a reef near Fulaga island. The vessel, a gift from the Australian government, was on its first mission, causing embarrassment to Fiji's government and military. Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua has called for the military to ensure transparency and accountability by making the findings of an independent inquiry public.

Fiji's Military Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai has initiated an independent inquiry into the grounding of the patrol boat Puamau, a vessel donated by Australia, which ran aground on a reef during its maiden voyage. The incident has caused significant embarrassment for the Fijian military, which is heavily funded by the government, amidst public discontent over defense spending in a country with widespread poverty.