Public Outcry Over Elderly Struggling in Long Queues for Card Renewal

A distressing public post by Ro Iva Qolouvaki has drawn attention to the harsh conditions faced by senior citizens during Vodafone Fiji’s ongoing purple card renewal exercise.

Qolouvaki, who was present at the scene, took to social media after witnessing at least three elderly individuals collapse under the heat while standing in line for hours outside a Vodafone outlet.

Others, she said, had to be escorted inside due to severe knee pain and headaches caused by long periods of standing.

“I was there waiting since 7:20am, only to be served at 11:10am — yes, three hours,” she wrote.

“Now imagine our grandparents… We never asked for this so-called card renewal. You guys came up with it, so I suggest you get off your high horses and do something that will help everyone, especially the senior citizens.”

Qolouvaki criticised the lack of proper arrangements such as shade, seating, and crowd control, and said the burden placed on the elderly is unacceptable.

She said she would not stop raising her concerns until the matter reached the relevant authorities.

“Levu ga na ka dou vakayadravia mai, ka dou qai wavoki yani vei koro! Me kua ni ra mai vakaloloma tu va qo na wawa!” she wrote, urging Vodafone and the responsible government ministries to send mobile teams into villages and settlements rather than forcing vulnerable groups into long, crowded queues.

She also shared practical advice for those planning to renew their cards — including bringing a water bottle, umbrella, a folded chair, and ensuring all required documents are in hand:

“Senior citizens must bring their yellow Social Welfare ID, joint card, and $3. It’s sad to see some who waited for hours be sent home because they didn’t have all the requirements.”