A former member of Parliament is advocating for the urgent formalization of village by-laws in Fiji as a crucial element in the nation’s battle against drug-related issues. Niko Nawaikula recently submitted a proposal highlighting that community-level enforcement is an essential yet missing component in the current legal framework addressing drug problems.
Nawaikula pointed out that Fiji had previously upheld effective governance through village by-laws, traditional leadership, and native courts. Unfortunately, these systems have deteriorated over time, largely due to a lack of updates and integration into modern legal standards. His argument centers on the need to restore recognized by-laws that would empower communities to legally address drug activities while adhering to constitutional guidelines.
“Communities are unable to take enforcement action without appropriate legal support. Even when instances of illegal cultivation are detected, villagers cannot simply remove crops or evict offenders for fear of infringing on constitutional rights. Properly legislated village by-laws would provide the necessary legal framework for this action,” he stated.
Nawaikula also referenced international instruments, like the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which advocate for the acknowledgment of Indigenous governance structures. He urged the government to expedite the implementation of formal by-laws through the iTaukei Affairs framework, aiming to enhance the existing narcotics laws in the country.
Additionally, he suggested that villages and schools should be designated as protected zones to further safeguard the community. Nawaikula proposed the establishment of Village Narcotics Protection Committees, entrusted with specific roles in monitoring, intelligence gathering, and facilitating rehabilitation referrals, effectively bridging the gap between community vigilance and law enforcement.
He emphasized that simply enhancing enforcement measures is not enough; strengthening village by-laws can bolster cultural governance and social accountability, which are pivotal in protecting Fijian communities from the threats posed by illicit drugs. This proactive approach not only seeks to combat the current drug crisis but also aims to re-establish a sense of agency and responsibility within villages for their safety and wellbeing.
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