The Fiji Labour Party (FLP) has called for significant reforms to tackle what it identifies as an escalating national drug crisis and issues surrounding institutional integrity. The Party emphasizes the necessity for the government to take decisive action instead of merely offering excuses in response to this issue.
In a recent statement, the FLP advocated for the establishment of an independent National Drug and Institutional Integrity Commission. This commission should consist of impartial experts, including forensic auditors and intelligence analysts, along with external partners, rather than current officials investigating their peers.
Additionally, the FLP requested a Public National Security Briefing to provide the nation with vital information regarding the influx of drugs into Fiji, identify enforcement gaps, and review political decisions that have failed in terms of drug enforcement. They emphasized the need for urgent reforms to address these issues.
The Party’s statement noted that the Prime Minister has yet to present a thorough response to ongoing public concerns regarding the drug crisis. They asserted that genuine leadership involves proactive measures rather than mere press releases. The FLP also questioned the adequacy of national security oversight from the Prime Minister, who leads the National Security Council, insisting that the government’s silence on such a critical crisis is unacceptable.
Furthermore, the FLP urged for enhanced oversight of the Police Force and related enforcement agencies, recommending reforms such as personnel rotations, lifestyle audits, whistle-blower protections, and external monitoring to ensure accountability.
The Party underscored the importance of honesty and structural change in addressing the drug crisis, noting that merely focusing on marijuana does not tackle the broader issues of institutional corruption. They stressed that Fiji cannot secure its youth or uphold national security through outdated policing practices.
“This crisis demands honesty, courage, transparency, and reform. The future of Fiji’s security, stability, and international reputation depends on it,” the FLP concluded. The call for action signals a strong desire for reform in Fiji’s approach to addressing both drug-related challenges and the integrity of its institutions, aiming for a more secure future for the nation.
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