Opposition Member of Parliament Ketan Lal has criticized the call from Minister for Women and Children Lynda Tabuya for the restoration of the death penalty in Fiji, labeling it a regression for the nation’s human rights and justice system.
Lal acknowledged the seriousness of drug trafficking as a crime that warrants strong legal responses but argued that advocating for the death penalty contradicts Fiji’s constitutional principles and international commitments. He pointed out that the Constitution, specifically Sections 8 and 11, guarantees the right to life and prohibits cruel and degrading treatment.
He emphasized that reintroducing the death penalty would undermine these essential rights and damage the integrity of a justice system built on human dignity and the rule of law. Lal further stated that Fiji’s alignment with international treaties against the death penalty demonstrates the country’s commitment to human rights globally. He warned that reinstating such a severe measure would diminish Fiji’s international reputation and moral stance.
The Opposition MP expressed disappointment that the Minister would support such extreme measures and highlighted the importance of addressing serious crimes like rape, which he believes require significant attention. He called for life sentences for rapists and urged the development of legal frameworks that ensure swift justice for victims of sexual violence while safeguarding the rights of all individuals.
Lal asserted that efforts should be focused on improving the justice system, enhancing law enforcement, and investing in rehabilitation and prevention programs to tackle the underlying causes of drug trafficking. He concluded by stressing the importance of adhering to constitutional boundaries and human rights in the ongoing fight against drug trafficking, cautioning against allowing fear to provoke unconstitutional and ineffective measures.