Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya’s call for the imposition of the death penalty on individuals involved in large-scale drug trafficking has sparked significant controversy. Shadow Minister for Justice representing the Group of 16 (G16), Ketan Lal, criticized the proposal, stating that Fiji should focus on advocating for life sentences for rapists and developing laws that prioritize justice for survivors rather than considering capital punishment.
Lal expressed disappointment that Tabuya, who oversees issues related to women and children, would support such a severe measure. He emphasized the importance of her role in promoting the safety and empowerment of vulnerable members of society, particularly victims of serious crimes like rape. He described rape as a crime that devastates lives and inflicts lifelong scars, underscoring the necessity of addressing it with appropriate urgency.
Instead of pushing for the death penalty, Lal argues that Fiji should work on establishing a legal framework that delivers prompt justice for victims of sexual violence while also protecting the rights of all individuals involved. He believes that resources and efforts should be directed towards ensuring the safety and rights of those who have suffered rather than reinstating capital punishment.
While acknowledging that the fight against drug trafficking is essential, Lal insisted that it must adhere to constitutional boundaries and respect human rights. He cautioned against allowing fear to drive the adoption of unconstitutional and ineffective measures. He urged a focus on strengthening existing laws concerning crimes like rape to ensure justice and uphold the rights of all Fijians.
Lal acknowledged the seriousness of drug trafficking as a crime that requires robust legal responses. However, he asserted that proposing the death penalty contradicts Fiji’s constitutional principles and international obligations. He referenced Article 8 of Fiji’s Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and protection against cruel and degrading treatment. Lal stated that reinstating the death penalty would violate fundamental human rights and undermine the justice system, which relies on human dignity and the rule of law. He also highlighted Fiji’s commitment to international treaties opposing the death penalty, reinforcing the importance of maintaining human rights on a global level. Any move to reintroduce such punitive measures would, in his view, mark a regressive step that could damage Fiji’s international reputation and moral standing.