Opposition Member of Parliament, Virendra Lal, has criticized comments made by Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, regarding the imposition of the death penalty for drug trafficking. Lal argues that rather than focusing solely on drug-related offenses, stronger penalties should be applied to more serious crimes such as rape.
Lal acknowledges the role of drug traffickers in Fiji’s social issues but questions why the focus is exclusively on this crime. He stated, “As the Shadow Minister for Women, I cannot and will not support this statement by the Minister. There are far more heinous crimes that warrant stricter penalties, such as rape and especially child rape. The emotional and mental torment that victims endure throughout their lives is unjust when their attackers often receive minimal punishment.”
He further expressed concern over the long-term impact of such crimes on victims, highlighting the struggle to create meaningful relationships while living in fear of their assailants possibly reoffending after serving short sentences.
Lal emphasized the need for the Minister to address the more serious concerns surrounding violent crimes against women and children. He stated, “We should not be hearing a reactionary statement from the Minister focused on current trends when there are far more pressing issues that need to be addressed. Perhaps the Minister should consider revising existing laws to ensure that those who commit such egregious acts receive life sentences, while also enhancing social protections for women and children.”