The proposal from Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, to impose the death penalty for large-scale drug trafficking has sparked significant backlash. Ketan Lal, the Shadow Minister for Justice representing the Group of 16 (G16), argued that Fiji should be focusing on life sentences for rapists and creating laws that deliver justice for survivors rather than advocating for capital punishment.
Mr. Lal expressed disappointment that Ms. Tabuya, in her role, would support such a drastic measure. He emphasized that her office’s mission should be to protect and empower the most vulnerable members of society, particularly victims of severe crimes like rape. He described rape as a devastating crime that leaves lasting trauma and stated it requires a serious and thoughtful response.
According to Mr. Lal, Fiji should prioritize establishing a legal framework that ensures swift justice for victims of sexual violence while protecting everyone’s rights. He underscored the importance of directing resources and efforts towards supporting victims rather than reinstating the death penalty.
He acknowledged that while combating drug trafficking is essential, it should be pursued within constitutional limits and a commitment to human rights. He cautioned against allowing fear to drive the adoption of measures that might be unconstitutional and ineffective, and instead called for strengthening laws against sexual violence.
Regarding the international implications, Mr. Lal noted that while drug trafficking must be addressed firmly, proposing the death penalty conflicts with Fiji’s constitutional principles and international commitments. He pointed to Article 8 of Fiji’s Constitution, which protects the right to life and prohibits cruel and degrading treatment.
The potential reinstatement of the death penalty would not only breach essential rights but also jeopardize the integrity of the justice system, which is based on human dignity and the rule of law, he argued. Additionally, he highlighted that Fiji’s adherence to international treaties opposing the death penalty reflects a commitment to global human rights standards. Any attempt to reintroduce such severe measures would be a retrogressive step that could undermine Fiji’s international reputation and moral standing.