Calls have emerged this week for the dismissal of Lynda Tabuya, Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, following her recent suggestion to implement the death penalty for major drug traffickers. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry expressed strong criticism, urging Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to remove Tabuya from her position. He emphasized that she is undermining the authority of the Cabinet and the Prime Minister by making significant statements without prior consultation.
Chaudhry’s concerns were echoed by Unity Fiji Party leader Savenaca Narube, who pointed out that Tabuya’s comments reflect poorly on the Prime Minister’s ability to manage his ministers. Narube insisted that such serious issues require proper handling and said the Prime Minister needs to establish clearer policies and guidance for his cabinet members.
In her controversial remarks, Tabuya stated her desire for the death penalty to be introduced in Fiji to combat drug trafficking, citing vulnerabilities at the nation’s borders and the need to protect citizens. However, her statements have drawn backlash from various sectors, including human rights advocates and the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission, which condemned her remarks as a serious violation of human rights.
During the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga, Prime Minister Rabuka commented that Tabuya’s failure to consult with the Cabinet before making such a significant statement was misguided. He noted that the death penalty is prohibited under the 2013 Constitution and indicated that this issue would be addressed at the next Cabinet meeting.
This incident is not the first time Tabuya has faced scrutiny, as she has previously been in the spotlight due to allegations of substance abuse and involvement in an extramarital affair. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Rabuka affirmed the government’s commitment to combating Fiji’s drug issues, stating that they would actively pursue and dismantle drug trafficking operations, calling for collaborative efforts to tackle crime in the country, particularly concerning drugs.