There have been renewed calls this week for the dismissal of Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, following her recent comments advocating for the death penalty for drug traffickers in Fiji.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry expressed his views by stating, “Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka should fire Lynda Tabuya,” emphasizing that she must be removed from her position for making such statements without consulting the Cabinet or the Prime Minister first. He described the matter as significant.
Unity Fiji Party leader Savenaca Narube backed Mr. Chaudhry’s assertions, saying that Ms. Tabuya’s comments reflect a disrespect for Prime Minister Rabuka. He insisted that such critical issues should be handled judiciously by government ministers and criticized the Prime Minister for not managing his ministers effectively, suggesting the need for clearer policies and guidelines.
Ms. Tabuya expressed her desire to introduce the death penalty in Fiji for those involved in trafficking substantial amounts of drugs, citing concerns about the country’s vulnerabilities and the need for protective measures for Fijians.
Her remarks have sparked a backlash from various segments of society, including human rights advocates and social media users. The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission condemned her comments as a serious violation of human rights, while the Minister for Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, advocated for a “humane and comprehensive approach.” Former FHRADC director Shaista Shameem described the death penalty as a cruel punishment, and the Fiji Law Society pointed out that it is not permissible under the 2013 Constitution.
During the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that Ms. Tabuya was mistaken in her statements, emphasizing the need for Cabinet consultation on such sensitive matters.
Prime Minister Rabuka labeled Ms. Tabuya’s comments as “unfortunate,” reiterating that major issues should first be discussed within the Cabinet. He indicated that the death penalty remains illegal under the 2013 Constitution and expressed hope that the matter would be addressed in the upcoming Cabinet meeting.
This incident is not the first time Ms. Tabuya has faced scrutiny, as she has previously dealt with controversy related to allegations of drug use and an extramarital affair.
Prime Minister Rabuka also told the Fijian community in Tonga that the government is committed to addressing Fiji’s drug issues. He pledged a determined effort to track down and dismantle illicit drug operations, highlighting the need for collective action against crime, especially drug-related offenses. He referred to the specific measures taken in Sabeto Village, Nadi, where movement restrictions have been implemented to combat drug use.