Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga has expressed support for the reintroduction of the death penalty for those convicted of trafficking significant quantities of illicit drugs into Fiji. He made these comments on Koro Island on Tuesday. This advocacy for the death penalty follows similar calls from Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, who suggested it as a measure to combat the illicit drug trade in the country.
While the proposal has gained traction, it has also faced considerable opposition. Turaga acknowledged Tabuya’s argument, emphasizing, “We do not want Fiji to become a breeding ground for such drugs.” He mentioned the emergence of a new substance, methamphetamine, in Fiji, noting that its users can go days without sleep and highlighting the urgent need for a united front against the proliferation of dangerous drugs.
He urged community members and churches to collaborate with the government in addressing this issue. However, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has voiced his disapproval of implementing the death penalty for drug-related offenses.
During his visit, Turaga was informed that marijuana continues to be a challenge for Nasau Village in Mudu, Koro Island. Tui Nasau, Vonevate Vetaukula, discussed the village’s commitment to combating marijuana cultivation. He reported that the local crime committee actively monitors residents and has referred individuals involved in marijuana cultivation to the police, resulting in arrests and ongoing legal proceedings.
Vetaukula stated that the village relies on legitimate sources of income, including yaqona, dalo (taro), cassava, and vudi (plantain). Turaga warned the villagers against tolerating any form of illicit drug use, stressing that prompt reporting of such activities is vital to maintaining the village’s integrity and safety.