The High Court in Suva has sentenced a 34-year-old man to 15 years in prison for the rape of his 12-year-old stepdaughter. The judge, Justice Pita Bulamainavalu, characterized the crime as an “incestuous and heinous” act that represents a severe betrayal of trust, leading to profound emotional and psychological trauma for the victim. The ruling was delivered on July 4, highlighting the growing concern of child sexual abuse in Fiji, which the judge labeled as a “scourge and menace” that requires immediate attention and preventative measures.
In the sentencing, Justice Bulamainavalu emphasized the need for a balanced approach that incorporates punishment, retribution, and rehabilitation, ultimately imposing a custodial term of 15 years, with a non-parole period of 14 years. He described the incident as particularly egregious given the victim’s vulnerability as a primary school student and a child entrusted to the care of the accused, who was married to her biological mother.
In addition to the prison sentence, the court has issued a Permanent Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) against the perpetrator under the Domestic Violence Act of 2009. This order includes prohibitions on contact and molestation, which are vital for ensuring the victim’s ongoing protection.
This case is reflective of a worrying trend in Fiji highlighted by similar instances where familial relationships have been exploited for egregious acts of sexual violence. In light of such criminal behavior, the court’s strong stance and protective orders signal a commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals and addressing the pressing issue of child exploitation within domestic settings.
The legal responses seen in these cases demonstrate the judiciary’s role in fostering a safer environment for children and affirming the importance of holding offenders accountable, which could serve as a deterrent and encourage other victims to come forward and seek justice.
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