The proposal by Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya to impose the death penalty for large-scale drug trafficking has sparked significant criticism. Ketan Lal, the Shadow Minister for Justice representing the Group of 16 (G16), expressed that Fiji should focus on life sentences for rapists and advocate for laws that ensure justice for survivors rather than resorting to death penalties.
Mr. Lal voiced his disappointment that Ms. Tabuya, in her capacity as minister responsible for the welfare of women and children, would support such a drastic measure. He emphasized the importance of her role in protecting and empowering vulnerable members of society, particularly victims of severe crimes like rape, which he described as a life-altering offense that requires serious attention.
He argued that the emphasis should be on developing a legal framework that delivers prompt and assured justice for victims of sexual violence while safeguarding the rights of all individuals. According to Mr. Lal, resources should be allocated to champion the lives and rights of victims rather than reintroducing the death penalty.
While acknowledging the need to combat drug trafficking vigorously, Mr. Lal insisted that such efforts must remain within the boundaries of the Constitution and uphold human rights. He cautioned against allowing fear to dictate policy changes that could be unconstitutional and ineffective. Instead, he urged for a focus on strengthening laws against offenses like rape to ensure justice and uphold the rights of all Fijians.
On the issue of drug trafficking, Mr. Lal asserted that while it is indeed a serious crime requiring stringent legal action, advocating for the death penalty would contradict Fiji’s constitutional principles and international obligations. He referenced Fiji’s Constitution, particularly Article 8, which guarantees the right to life and protection from cruel and degrading treatment.
According to Mr. Lal, reinstating the death penalty would not only infringe on fundamental rights but also damage the integrity of the justice system, which is intended to protect human dignity and maintain the rule of law. He highlighted that Fiji’s commitment to international treaties opposing the death penalty demonstrates the nation’s dedication to upholding human rights globally. Any push to reintroduce such an extreme measure would be a backward step that would undermine Fiji’s international reputation and moral authority.