The Methodist Church of Fiji has criticized the Minister for Women and Children’s proposal for the death penalty for individuals caught trafficking large quantities of drugs. The church’s statement aligns with the views of various organizations opposing Lynda Tabuya’s suggestion.
Reverend Iliesa Koroi, who heads the church’s evangelism department and works with youth, expressed his disapproval of the minister’s call, deeming it inhumane. He emphasized that individuals can change and be rehabilitated while still alive.
“Regardless of our sins, Jesus maintains his love for us,” Reverend Koroi stated. He articulated his disagreement with the minister’s stance, noting the importance of allowing those involved in illegal activities a chance to reform. He warned that imposing the death penalty would deny these individuals the opportunity to alter their lives for the better.
Reverend Koroi referenced a passage from the book of Ezekiel, highlighting the responsibility of individuals to guide wrongdoers toward redemption. He cautioned that if the death penalty were enacted, the person would die with their sins, and accountability would rest with the minister for advocating such a measure to lawmakers.