The Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, has stirred controversy by advocating for the death penalty for drug traffickers. At an event held at her ministry’s headquarters, Ms. Tabuya argued that Fiji’s position as a transit point for illegal drugs necessitates strict penalties to deter traffickers.
Critics have responded to her views, highlighting various concerns. Ms. Tabuya pointed out that Fiji is at increased risk due to its proximity to larger drug markets. “We’re a transit point for bigger developed countries. What do we do to protect our borders and our people from these harmful drugs?” she questioned. She cited Singapore’s use of the death penalty for trafficking significant quantities of drugs as a point of reference, urging Fiji to consider similar actions.
“We need to assert our borders, our sovereignty, and deliver a clear message to all drug traffickers and lords,” she stated.
In contrast, the Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, advocated for a more humane and comprehensive strategy against drug trafficking. He stressed the need to modernize the police force and enhance international collaboration. “These strategies represent a holistic approach to addressing drug trafficking and related crimes through stronger institutions, better resources, and international cooperation, which are likely to yield more sustainable results,” Mr. Tikoduadua explained. He further expressed that reinstating the death penalty could detract from addressing the root causes of drug trafficking.
Human rights advocates also expressed their opposition. Dr. Shaista Shameem, former Director of the Fiji Human Rights Commission, criticized the death penalty as a cruel punishment that prevents rehabilitation. She reminded that Fiji abolished the death penalty for treason in 1979 with overwhelming parliamentary support. “The death penalty was abolished after parliamentarians, including religious groups, agreed it was not the solution to any crime, even treason,” Dr. Shameem stated, urging that discussions on its revival be approached with care and compassion.
The Fiji Law Society added to the conversation, noting that the death penalty is not enshrined in the Constitution and any effort to reintroduce it would face considerable legal challenges. In 2015, the death penalty was abolished for all offenses in Fiji, and the 2013 Constitution explicitly forbids its application. Additionally, Fiji’s ratification of the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT) complicates any potential reinstatement of the death penalty. UNCAT enforces a universal ban on torture and related actions, with Fiji reaffirming its commitment through enhanced training programs for security forces.