Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka emphasized the importance of common sense in law enforcement while addressing a recent incident involving a Land Transport Authority officer. The officer fined a 60-year-old woman $150 in Rakiraki over problems with her bus card, an action that has sparked significant public outrage, particularly after a video of the incident went viral.
Acknowledging the necessity of following the law, Mr. Rabuka stressed that reasonable applications of the law should be a priority. He suggested that the officer might have allowed the elderly woman the opportunity to resolve her card issues by reaching the next station for a top-up, highlighting the need for compassion and flexibility in enforcement. “Common sense is something very useful when you’re applying the law,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that there are often alternative, less severe solutions to such situations.
This incident serves as a reminder of the balance that must be struck between upholding the law and exercising empathy. As communities grapple with similar issues, the hope is that authorities will increasingly prioritize understanding and communication, ensuring that justice is served without losing sight of humanity.
In summary, the Prime Minister’s remarks call for a more empathetic approach in law enforcement, particularly when dealing with vulnerable segments of the population. This reflects a growing recognition of the need for compassion within public service.
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