Fiji police are actively investigating the source of a leaked explicit video involving former cabinet minister Lynda Tabuya. The former minister, known for her work in women’s, children’s, and social protection issues, has filed a complaint with the cybercrime unit, emphasizing that the distribution of the video represents a severe case of cyberbullying.

The video, which features Tabuya and her husband, gained significant notoriety on social media, leading Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to dismiss her from his Cabinet, citing the decision as being in the best interest of the public. The incident has sparked widespread public outrage, highlighting the serious implications of privacy violations in the digital age.

Tabuya has condemned the leak as an example of gender-based violence, stating, “This is the grim reality of what two-thirds of women and girls in Fiji face—gender-based online violence.” In her remarks, she emphasized that sharing private videos among consenting adults should not be criminalized, affirming the private nature of her relationship with her husband.

Deputy Police Commissioner of Operations, Livai Driu, confirmed that cyberbullying is a serious offense and underscored the department’s commitment to pursuing those responsible for sharing the video unlawfully. He assured the public that all Fijians, regardless of status, would be treated equally under the law.

Though Tabuya has lost her Cabinet position, she remains a Member of Parliament. Nevertheless, there are rising calls for her resignation from Parliament, with some critics arguing that the incident undermines public trust in elected officials.

This situation raises significant questions about privacy rights in the digital era and the persistent issue of gender-based violence, bringing to light the need for ongoing discussions and reforms to protect individuals in similar predicaments.

Despite the challenges she faces, Tabuya’s focus on combating violence against women stands out as a beacon of hope, reminding society of the crucial need for solidarity in addressing these persistent injustices.