Opposition MP Virendra Lal has criticized comments made by Minister for Women and Children and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, regarding the imposition of the death penalty for drug trafficking, calling her stance misguided. Lal emphasized the need for stronger penalties for more severe crimes, particularly rape, rather than focusing solely on drug-related offenses.
Lal acknowledged that drug traffickers contribute to social issues in Fiji but questioned why the focus is limited to them. As the Shadow Minister for Women, he expressed his disapproval of the Minister’s statement, highlighting the need for harsher penalties for heinous crimes like rape, especially child rape. He pointed out the lifelong emotional and mental trauma faced by victims when perpetrators often receive lenient sentences.
Lal raised concerns about the lifelong horror confronted by rape victims, who struggle to form meaningful relationships, knowing their attackers could be released early. He argued that this leaves victims in a constant state of fear of reoffending.
He urged for more comprehensive measures, suggesting that the Minister should consider reviewing existing laws to ensure life imprisonment for serious offenses and enhance social protections for women and children in Fiji.