The Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, has ignited debate by proposing the death penalty for drug traffickers in Fiji. During a press conference at her ministry’s headquarters, she argued that Fiji’s position as a transit hub for illicit drugs justifies the need for severe penalties to deter traffickers.
Tabuya highlighted the vulnerability of Fiji due to its geographical 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?” She referenced Singapore’s implementation of the death penalty for significant drug trafficking, suggesting that Fiji should consider similar strict measures. “We need to claim our borders, our sovereignty, and send a message to all drug traffickers and lords,” she emphasized.
In contrast, Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, rejected Tabuya’s death penalty proposal, advocating for a more humane and comprehensive strategy to address drug trafficking. He stressed the need to modernize the police force and foster international collaboration, stating that a holistic approach would yield better long-term outcomes. Tikoduadua expressed concern that reinstating the death penalty could distract from addressing the underlying causes of drug trafficking.
Human rights advocates also expressed their opposition. Dr. Shaista Shameem, former Director of the Fiji Human Rights Commission, criticized the death penalty as an inhumane punishment that eliminates rehabilitation opportunities. She recalled that Fiji abolished the death penalty for treason in 1979, following broad parliamentary support, suggesting that any push for its reinstatement should be handled with care and compassion.
Additionally, the Fiji Law Society pointed out that the death penalty is not recognized in the Constitution, indicating that any effort to reinstate it would encounter substantial legal challenges. The death penalty was abolished for all crimes in Fiji in 2015, and the 2013 Constitution explicitly prohibits its implementation. Fiji’s ratification of the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment in 2015 complicates any move to reintroduce capital punishment, as the convention mandates a global ban on torture and related practices. Fiji’s commitment to these guidelines has been bolstered by enhanced training programs for its security personnel.