The Minister of Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, has expressed concerns that his ministry may not be ideally positioned to tackle the complex issue of drug-related problems in Fiji. During a recent Rotary Club of Labasa fundraiser, he emphasized that while the ministry’s role primarily revolves around enforcing the law, a more comprehensive approach is needed to effectively combat the drug crisis.
Tikoduadua proposed that the matter be allocated to a more suitable ministry, such as social protection, to ensure a holistic response to the issue. He pointed out that law enforcement typically intervenes after drugs have already been consumed or sold, indicating that a more proactive and preventative strategy is necessary.
Highlighting that force is not a viable solution, he stated, “Our drug problem must be addressed at its very roots.” He also mentioned that his ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of Finance to provide better resources for the Narcotics Unit, which is essential for adequately dealing with this societal challenge.
The Minister encouraged community involvement by inviting ideas and support from civil society, underscoring the significant role they play in national efforts to combat drug issues. Tikoduadua acknowledged that drug problems impact all communities and asserted the importance of collective action to address this pressing concern.
This call to action reflects a hopeful outlook where collaboration and resource allocation can lead to more effective strategies in fighting the drug crisis in Fiji. By recognizing the necessity of a multisectoral approach, there is potential for meaningful change and improvement in the lives of those affected by drug-related issues.
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