The Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (FHRADC) is urging the Fijian government to enhance policies, laws, and judicial processes instead of resorting to extreme measures like the death penalty. This statement follows a suggestion from Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya to impose the death penalty on individuals implicated in drug trafficking.
FHRADC chairman Pravesh Sharma emphasized that Fiji has made significant progress since abolishing the death penalty in 1979, recognizing it as a grave violation of human rights, particularly the right to life. He referenced Section 8 of the 2013 Constitution, which asserts that every person has a right to life and cannot be arbitrarily deprived of it.
Mr. Sharma also highlighted Section 11 of the same Constitution, which guarantees freedom from any form of torture or excessively severe punishment. He asserted that the death penalty is not an effective response to the growing issue of drug trafficking. Instead, he advocated for the government to conduct thorough research to understand the reasons behind drug engagement among the populace and implement strategies that address these root causes.
The Commission stressed the importance of focusing on rehabilitating individuals struggling with addiction and preventing drugs from entering Fiji.