Fiji’s Women, Children and Social Protection Minister Lynda Tabuya has advocated for severe measures to combat the rising drug and HIV crisis in the country, including the potential introduction of the death penalty for serious drug traffickers. During a press conference, Tabuya emphasized the need for strict penalties to deter those who transport large amounts of drugs into Fiji.
Tabuya highlighted that children diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, often due to blood sharing or transmission through other means, are being rehabilitated at Lautoka Hospital with family assistance. Additionally, the government is working to establish Fiji’s first Child Wellbeing Centre aimed at helping children struggling with drug addiction.
“We are facing vulnerabilities in our borders as Fiji is increasingly used as a transit point for illicit drugs,” Ms. Tabuya stated. She compared the situation to practices in Singapore, which enforces the death penalty for specific drug trafficking offenses, arguing that such measures could help safeguard the population of Fiji.
The minister stressed the necessity of protecting Fiji’s borders from drug traffickers operating through various means, including air and sea routes. She expressed concern that drug trafficking puts both adults and children at risk, leading them to engage in drug dealing for quick financial gains that ultimately harm the community.
Tabuya’s proposals reflect a commitment to addressing the drug crisis and its repercussions on public health and safety in Fiji.