Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, has faced criticism for her call to impose the death penalty on those involved in large-scale drug trafficking. Ketan Lal, the Shadow Minister for Justice representing the Group of 16 (G16), argues that Fiji should instead focus on advocating for life sentences for rapists and implementing laws that ensure justice for victims.
Lal expressed disappointment that Tabuya, who is responsible for protecting vulnerable populations, would support such a severe measure. He emphasized that her role should involve championing the protection and empowerment of individuals affected by serious crimes, including rape, which he described as life-destroying and leaving lasting trauma.
He argued that Fiji’s efforts should concentrate on establishing a legal framework that ensures prompt and effective justice for victims of sexual violence while also safeguarding the rights of all individuals. Lal firmly believes that resources should be allocated to defend the lives and rights of the most impacted rather than to reintroducing the death penalty.
While acknowledging the seriousness of drug trafficking, Lal maintained that measures against it should align with the Constitution and prioritize human rights. He cautioned against allowing fear to lead to unconstitutional and ineffective solutions.
Lal further noted that while drug trafficking demands robust legal action, proposing the death penalty contradicts Fiji’s constitutional obligations and international commitments, specifically citing Article 8 of the Constitution, which protects the right to life and prohibits cruel treatment. He asserted that reinstating the death penalty would undermine fundamental rights and damage the justice system’s integrity, which should uphold human dignity and the rule of law.
Additionally, he highlighted that Fiji’s compliance with international treaties opposing the death penalty is a reflection of the nation’s commitment to human rights worldwide. Lal concluded that any move to reinstate such a harsh punishment would regress the country’s moral standing and international reputation.