The Assistant Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure, has announced that the Counter Narcotics Bureau Bill in Fiji will introduce stricter penalties in order to effectively tackle the nation’s drug crisis. During the launch of a workshop for the Bill, Vakalalabure underscored the necessity of robust legislation to aid the legal system and support law enforcement in their fight against drug-related issues.
“We will be implementing some severe penalties as a deterrent, considering the significant drug problem we face in Fiji,” stated Mr. Vakalalabure. He noted that although details are still being finalized and consultations are ongoing, the introduction of harsher penalties is a certainty.
Vakalalabure highlighted the importance of the consultation process and emphasized that international cooperation would bolster efforts to combat the drug trade. He mentioned the Coalition Government’s eagerness to advance this matter promptly, ensuring that all perspectives are considered since drug issues impact the entire community.
He also noted that Fiji’s close allies, Australia and New Zealand, are fully supportive of the initiative, collaborating with the ministry and various stakeholders in the fight against drugs. The Government aims to have the Bill passed during the parliamentary sessions scheduled for November or December, or by early next year at the latest.