I'm Young, Vibrant, and Good-Looking - Chandra Tells Kirpal

FIJI NEWS

3/9/20252 min read

Former FijiFirst candidate Elaine Chandra launched a scathing attack on Facebook following an online exchange with sitting member of Parliament Sanjay Kirpal.

Chandra then took to her social media page, publishing screenshots and launching a pointed attack on the MP, mocking his political record while emphasising her own prospects. She declared herself “young, vibrant, and good-looking,” asserting that she has many opportunities ahead in her political career, in contrast to the MP she was targeting.

This all started after a spat between the two in the comments, with Kirpal telling Chandra to understand the facts before publishing misinformation—referring to the suspension of standing orders to open a debate for the Constitution Amendment Bill of 2025.

"First find the votes and become a member of Parliament before you open your big mouth," a frustrated Kirpal said, asserting that suspending the standing orders does not equate to changing the Constitution.

Chandra, who previously contested elections but did not secure a parliamentary seat, questioned Kirpal about his contributions to policies.

“Sanjay Kirpal, are you threatening me? Listen up: my achievements, education, and unwavering support of voters prove who is really in charge here,” she wrote. "If you can't learn to address a powerful woman with the respect she deserves, then your words are nothing but empty noise."

“You see, don’t try these strategies on me. It won't work. I'm an alpha and flick very differently. Too thick-skinned to give a damn,” she asserted.

Her attack was also mirrored by a fake Facebook page named "Viti Pulse" with anonymous administrators who regularly publish one-sided and false information, usually against the coalition government and favouring the former FijiFirst party.

Kirpal responded with, "Well, before criticising, you should have known the facts. However, it's just a criticism of the change of the Constitution, and it seems you don't know what happens on that day. Once in Parliament, you can do whatever is good, but presently, our focus is for a better and prosperous Fiji. You can give it a go in the next election!"

"Putting my pictures and explaining won't hinder my work, so you can keep on doing it—I am okay," Kirpal stated.