Illustration of Ali queries Tabuya

Fiji’s Gender Debate: Minister’s Controversial Presidential Endorsement Sparks Outcry

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Shamima Ali, the coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC), has voiced her discontent following Women’s Minister Lynda Tabuya’s support for Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu’s candidacy for the presidency. Ali challenged Tabuya’s earlier claim that Ratu Naiqama is a male advocate for dismantling the patriarchal structure in Fiji.

Ali urged Minister Tabuya to clarify how Ratu Naiqama has consistently contributed to initiatives aimed at reducing patriarchy in the nation. She articulated her concerns that Tabuya’s endorsement undermines the goals of the National Action Plan (NAP) designed to eliminate violence against women and girls, an effort that has seen government and civil society collaboration for over five years.

In response, Minister Tabuya acknowledged Ali’s differing perspective but maintained her endorsement stemmed from her own experiences as a woman leader in both opposition and government. Tabuya assured that her support did not diminish the critical work undertaken by Ali and the FWCC in spearheading the NAP’s implementation.

Highlighting her commitment to applying the NAP effectively, Tabuya emphasized the importance of collective responsibility across Fiji’s diverse communities. She advocated for mutual understanding and collaboration as key to fostering social cohesion, proposing the compulsory teaching of iTaukei and Hindi in schools and the introduction of a Racial Harmony Act akin to that of Singapore.

This exchange illustrates an ongoing dialogue within Fiji about women’s rights and societal cooperation. While tensions exist between different viewpoints, it is encouraging to see leaders discussing solutions aimed at enhancing unity and equity within the community.

Summary: The article discusses a disagreement between FWCC’s Shamima Ali and Women’s Minister Lynda Tabuya over the endorsement of Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu for President. Ali questions Ratu Naiqama’s contributions against patriarchy, while Tabuya defends her endorsement based on her leadership experience. The exchange highlights the importance of collaboration and unity in addressing women’s issues and fostering social cohesion in Fiji.


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