Fiji Reconsiders Its Five-Year Anti-Narcotics Strategy Amid Controversy

In recent developments regarding Fiji’s ongoing battle against drugs, the Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, has called for careful contemplation before canceling the nation’s five-year Counter Narcotics Strategy. The strategy, intended to span from 2023 to 2028, seeks to tackle the drug issue as a whole-of-government challenge, impacting sectors beyond just law enforcement, including health, education, and community welfare.

Minister Tikoduadua highlighted the broader implications of narcotics that extend beyond the scope of the police alone. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a cohesive national framework to manage the drug problem effectively, regardless of which ministry is in charge. This call for caution comes in light of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s indication of possibly taking the decision to Parliament for cancellation, especially following the controversial closure of the Counter Narcotics Bureau after some of its officers were linked to drug dealing.

While his ministry no longer directly oversees the bureau, Tikoduadua assured continued support to the Ministry of Policing, underlining that his department remains a committed partner in the anti-narcotics efforts.

The National Counter Narcotics Strategy was previously initiated to address Fiji’s escalating drug crisis. Designed to operate independently yet collaboratively with the police force, it aimed at tackling drug issues from multiple fronts by involving various societal components and faith-based organizations. The strategy has faced criticism for lacking sufficient funding and urgent execution.

The closure of the Counter Narcotics Bureau, following corruption allegations, has brought the efficacy and future of the strategy into question. However, stakeholders stress that the persistence of drug-related challenges necessitates a durable and sustainable approach. Supporters of the strategy, including Member of Parliament Ioane Naivalurua, have advocated for rigorous oversight and immediate action rather than bureaucratic delays, emphasizing the strategy’s potential for fostering a national movement against narcotics.

The ongoing dialogue underscores the necessity for a focused and robust response to the drug crisis to restore safety and stability in Fiji, as well as the importance of ensuring the strategy remains active and effective in safeguarding the nation’s future.