Calls to dismiss Lynda Tabuya, Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, gained momentum this week following her recent proposal for the death penalty for drug traffickers. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry was particularly vocal, stating, “Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka should fire Lynda Tabuya.” He criticized her for addressing such significant issues without consulting the Cabinet or the Prime Minister, emphasizing the importance of proper protocol.
Unity Fiji Party leader Savenaca Narube echoed Chaudhry’s sentiments, asserting that Tabuya’s remarks showed a lack of respect for established leadership. Narube remarked, “Such serious matters require appropriate handling, and no Minister should be making such statements without due process.” He stressed the need for the Prime Minister to enforce stricter policies to manage his ministers effectively.
Tabuya expressed her desire to see the death penalty instituted in Fiji as a deterrent against drug trafficking, highlighting vulnerabilities in the country’s borders. However, her comments faced backlash from various quarters, including human rights advocates and social media users. The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission condemned her statement as a grave human rights violation, while Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua opted for a more humane approach to the drug issue. The Fiji Law Society added that the death penalty is not recognized within the provisions of the 2013 Constitution.
During the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka disagreed with Tabuya’s stance, indicating that her comments should have involved prior consultation with the Cabinet. He noted the unfortunate timing of her statement, emphasizing that such significant proposals must be handled by the Cabinet first.
The Prime Minister stated he anticipates addressing Tabuya’s comments in the upcoming Cabinet meeting, underlining the constitutional illegality of the death penalty in Fiji. This is not the first instance of Tabuya attracting controversy; she has previously faced allegations concerning illicit drug use and an extramarital affair earlier this year.
In addressing the broader issue of drug trafficking, Rabuka informed the Fijian community in Tonga that the government is committed to combating the drug problem. He pledged a thorough approach to identifying and taking down those involved in drug trade, referencing initiatives like Sabeto Village’s nighttime movement restrictions aimed at reducing drug use.