The Chair of the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (HRADC), Pravesh Sharma, has emphasized the importance of enhancing policies, laws, and judicial processes in Fiji rather than resorting to extreme measures like the death penalty in the fight against drug trafficking. This statement comes in response to Minister of Women, Children, and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya’s recent call for the reinstatement of the death penalty for drug traffickers.
Sharma highlighted that Section 8 of Fiji’s 2013 Constitution guarantees the right to life and prohibits arbitrary deprivation of life. He pointed out that Fiji abolished the death penalty in 1979, recognizing it as a grave violation of human rights, particularly the right to life and protection from torture or cruel treatment.
He further noted that Section 11 of the Constitution ensures individuals’ freedom from any form of torture or disproportionate punishment. Sharma contended that the death penalty is not an effective solution to the increasing drug problem; instead, the government should investigate the underlying causes driving people to drug use and implement appropriate measures to tackle the issue.
Sharma advocated for a focus on rehabilitating those with addictions and preventing drug entry into the country. He called for enhanced border security, public awareness campaigns, and educational initiatives about the harms of drugs. Additionally, he mentioned that imposing significant prison sentences for drug offenders could serve as a deterrent.