Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, has generated significant debate by proposing the death penalty for drug traffickers. Speaking at her ministry’s headquarters, she asserted that Fiji’s position as a transit country for illegal drugs necessitates severe penalties to deter trafficking.
Tabuya highlighted the increased vulnerability of Fiji due to its proximity to larger drug markets, stating, “We’re a transit point for bigger developed countries. What do we do to protect our borders and our people from these harmful drugs?” Drawing comparisons to Singapore’s strict laws against drug trafficking, she advocated for similar measures in Fiji, emphasizing the need to safeguard national borders and send a clear message to traffickers.
In contrast, Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, opposed Tabuya’s proposal, advocating for a more compassionate and comprehensive strategy to combat drug trafficking. He underscored the significance of modernizing the police force and fostering international cooperation, suggesting that these methods offer a more sustainable solution to the issue. Tikoduadua warned that reinstating the death penalty could overlook the underlying causes of drug trafficking.
Human rights advocates also expressed their disapproval. Dr. Shaista Shameem, former Director of the Fiji Human Rights Commission, condemned the death penalty as a cruel punishment that hinders opportunities for rehabilitation. She reminded that Fiji abolished the death penalty for treason in 1979, with broad parliamentary consensus. “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 a compassionate approach to any discussion of its reintroduction.
Additionally, the Fiji Law Society intervened, noting that the death penalty is not recognized in the Constitution, and any attempt to reintroduce it would encounter significant legal challenges. The death penalty was completely outlawed in Fiji in 2015, and the 2013 Constitution explicitly prohibits its use. Furthermore, Fiji’s ratification of the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT) complicates any revival of the death penalty, as this convention enforces a global ban on such practices, with Fiji reaffirming its commitment through enhanced training for its security personnel.