The Chair of the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (HRADC), Pravesh Sharma, has expressed strong opposition to implementing harsh measures like the death penalty as a means to address drug trafficking in Fiji. This statement follows remarks from the Minister of Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, who suggested that drug traffickers should face capital punishment.
Sharma pointed out that the 2013 Constitution of the Republic of Fiji guarantees the right to life, emphasizing that no individual should be arbitrarily deprived of this right. He reminded that Fiji abolished the death penalty in 1979, recognizing it as a serious human rights violation that contradicts the fundamental rights to life and freedom from torture or inhumane treatment.
He cited Section 11 of the Constitution, which ensures freedom from torture and cruel treatment, reinforcing the commission’s belief that the death penalty does not address the escalating drug issue. Instead, Sharma advocates for comprehensive research to understand why individuals turn to drugs and encourages the implementation of effective measures to tackle the root causes.
Sharma underscored the importance of rehabilitating those struggling with addiction and improving border security to prevent drug influx. He also highlighted that stringent prison sentences for convicted drug offenders could serve as a deterrent.