Minister Lynda Tabuya, responsible for Women, Children, and Social Protection, has ignited debate by suggesting the implementation of the death penalty for drug traffickers in Fiji. Speaking from her ministry’s headquarters, she highlighted the country’s role as a transit hub for illegal drugs, arguing that severe penalties are necessary to deter trafficking activities.
Her comments have drawn criticism from various sectors. Ms. Tabuya stated that Fiji’s geographical proximity to larger drug markets puts the nation at greater risk. “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.
Referencing the strict drug laws in Singapore, which includes the death penalty for large-scale trafficking, she urged Fiji to explore similar measures. “We need to claim our borders, our sovereignty, and send a message to all drug traffickers and lords,” she asserted.
In contrast, Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, opposed Ms. Tabuya’s suggestion, advocating for a more humane and comprehensive strategy to tackle drug trafficking. He stressed the importance of modernizing the police force and enhancing international collaboration.
“These strategies represent a holistic approach to addressing drug trafficking and related crimes through stronger institutions, better resources, and international cooperation, likely yielding more sustainable results,” Mr. Tikoduadua explained. He also cautioned that the death penalty could distract from addressing the underlying issues related to drug trafficking.
Human rights advocates also expressed their dissent. Dr. Shaista Shameem, former Director of the Fiji Human Rights Commission, criticized the death penalty as cruel and degrading, asserting it denies individuals a chance for rehabilitation. She reminded that Fiji abolished the death penalty for treason in 1979, with unanimous parliamentary backing, highlighting that a similar consensus must be approached with care.
The Fiji Law Society also chimed in, stating that the death penalty is not mentioned in the Constitution, suggesting that any attempt to restore it would face major legal challenges. The death penalty was eliminated for all offenses in Fiji in 2015, and the 2013 Constitution prohibits its use. Fiji’s ratification of the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT) in 2015 further complicates efforts to reinstate capital punishment, as UNCAT upholds a worldwide ban on torture and similar practices. Fiji has reinforced its commitment through enhanced training for its security forces.