Fiji faces a serious drug crisis that could lead the country into a state of despair unless addressed urgently. Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, emphasized the need to introduce the death penalty for major drug traffickers, despite pushback from opposition politicians and human rights advocates.
Tabuya highlighted that Fiji is grappling with an escalating issue of illicit drug addiction and underscored the importance of sending a firm message to drug cartels and traffickers operating beyond the nation’s borders. She stated, “You are not welcome; you cannot profit at the expense of our people.”
The minister emphasized the necessity of protecting the country’s citizens, particularly vulnerable groups like children. She argued that the death penalty is not an unfamiliar concept, citing various countries, including Singapore, China, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Iran, that have such laws in place.
Tabuya noted that the death penalty for murder exists in 27 out of 51 U.S. states, a nation known for championing human rights. Her remarks reflect a strategic push for action regarding the dire nature of the drug problem and the need for strong deterrents against such crimes.
With an ongoing review of the 2013 Constitution, she pointed out that the death penalty was once part of Fijian law until it was abolished in 1979 and removed entirely from criminal laws in 2015. Tabuya stressed the need for deterrence in addressing the drug issue comprehensively, advocating for all possible options as a sovereign nation.