Fiji’s Criminal Records Bill Faces Scrutiny Over Child Exploitation Fears

Concerns have been raised about the potential implications of the proposed Criminal Records Bill in Fiji, particularly regarding its treatment of children under the age of 15. During a public consultation held by the Parliamentary Standing Committee for Justice, Law and Human Rights in Nadi, justice of peace and Ba resident Alsheik Ashad Ali expressed his apprehensions about a specific section of the bill that could inadvertently allow children to be exploited in criminal activities.

Mr. Ali pointed to Section 17(1)(c) of the draft legislation, which states that individuals convicted of an offence while under the age of 15 would have their conviction considered “spent” the day it is handed down. He warned that such provisions could leave a loophole for criminals to utilize children as “vehicles” to transport illicit substances, such as drugs.

“I am very concerned that children could be manipulated in this way,” Mr. Ali stated, highlighting a growing issue of organized crime in Fiji. He emphasized that the current climate could expose vulnerable youth to criminal syndicates operating in the country, leading to a disturbing trend of using minors in dangerous activities, including drug trafficking.

Furthermore, Mr. Ali criticized the proposed legislation as being poorly organized, suggesting it could promote rehabilitation undermined by its confusing provisions. He stressed the urgency of refining the bill to prevent it from becoming a tool for criminal exploitation.

“Countries around the world have seen how easily criminals can train and recruit minors for unlawful activities,” Mr. Ali noted, advocating for a thorough review of the bill to safeguard against such risks.

The consultations regarding the proposed Criminal Records Bill are set to continue in Lautoka, where further discussions will aim to refine the legislation and address these critical concerns. The intention behind the bill is to promote rehabilitation, but the need for careful consideration of its potential repercussions on children remains paramount.