Lynda Tabuya, Fiji’s Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, addressed the issue of an alleged nude video of her that has been circulating on social media, asserting that it was a private recording made between her and her husband. In her statement, she emphasized that this situation highlights a broader issue affecting many women and girls in Fiji—the prevalence of technology-facilitated gender-based violence, or online violence.
Tabuya described such actions as a serious form of cyberbullying, pointing out that they infringe upon the rights of individuals to confidentiality and privacy, especially when private images and videos are shared publicly without consent. She firmly stated that there is nothing unlawful or immoral about sharing private content between consenting adults but condemned the unauthorized distribution of that material as a criminal act.
In response to the situation, Tabuya is actively cooperating with relevant authorities to identify those responsible for disseminating the video. She mentioned that she possesses evidence against one individual who shared it via email and plans to report this matter to the police, citing violations under the Online Safety Act and the Crimes Act.
Moreover, she issued a warning to anyone who continues to distribute the video, highlighting that doing so is a crime that could result in significant legal repercussions.
This incident not only brings attention to the critical issue of privacy rights in the digital age but also serves as a call to action for stricter enforcement of laws against cyberbullying and harassment. It stands as a reminder of the importance of consent and respect in all forms of communication, both online and offline.
Overall, while the situation is challenging for Tabuya, her commitment to addressing the issue underscores a proactive stance toward preventing further acts of cyber violence in Fiji. It’s a hopeful reminder that with collective efforts, improvements can be made to protect individuals from online abuses and foster a safer environment for all.
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