Sireli Leweniqila, a representative from Udu district, recently emphasized the importance of conducting a comprehensive evaluation of regions experiencing drug-related issues. His comments were made during the Macuata Provincial Council meeting in Sasa Village, located just outside Labasa Town.
Leweniqila, also a former chairperson of the Macuata Provincial Council and a prominent Fijian politician, highlighted that certain villages and communities have remained largely untouched by drug problems. He noted that areas closer to urban centers tend to have higher access to drug-related information and, consequently, a greater risk of residents becoming involved in drug activities.
He advocated for a systematic assessment to identify specific areas affected by drug issues, after which law enforcement agencies should collaborate with local traditional leaders to tackle the problem. The approach to addressing drug issues, he stated, should be tailored based on the needs and circumstances of each village.
Moreover, he stressed the necessity for stringent consequences for individuals convicted of drug offenses, including possession and trafficking, to act as a deterrent to potential offenders. Leweniqila pointed out that small communities could be more effectively managed under strong traditional leadership. However, he warned that when young individuals relocate to cities for education or work, their exposure to drugs can lead to poor decisions driven by the desire for quick financial gain.
He expressed concern over the global menace of drugs like methamphetamine, asserting that even though Fiji is a relatively small nation, it is not immune to these challenges. Leweniqila called for enhanced border control measures to protect future generations from the threats posed by drug trafficking.
In closing, he underlined the necessity for stricter laws to convey to offenders that drug-related crimes bear serious repercussions, thus aligning Fiji’s reputation as the ‘Friendly Islands’ with a firm stance against illegal drug activities.
This discussion serves as both a call to action and a reminder of the importance of community involvement in safeguarding future generations from the dangers posed by drug-related crimes. It offers hope that through collaboration and diligent policy enforcement, Fiji can navigate these challenges effectively.
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