Two Opposition Members of Parliament have expressed their opposition to the death penalty for drug lords proposed by Women’s Minister Lynda Tabuya. MP Ketan Lal stated that he is firmly against the minister’s suggestion. He emphasized that while drug trafficking is a serious crime that necessitates robust legal measures, the death penalty contradicts Fiji’s constitutional principles and international obligations.
Lal pointed out that the Constitution of Fiji, specifically Articles 8 and 11, safeguards the right to life and prohibits cruel and degrading treatment. He added that Fiji’s commitment to international treaties opposing the death penalty reflects the country’s dedication to human rights globally. He described any attempt to reintroduce such a severe measure as a regressive move that would undermine Fiji’s international reputation and moral authority. Lal expressed disappointment that Minister Tabuya, responsible for Women, Children, and Social Protection, is advocating for such a drastic measure.
He called for the fight against drug trafficking to continue vigorously but within the framework of Fiji’s Constitution and its human rights commitments. MP Virendra Lal echoed these sentiments, noting that drugs contribute significantly to social decay in Fiji. He suggested that there are far more severe crimes, like rape and child molestation, that warrant harsher penalties.
“Instead of a reactive statement from the minister, we need to focus on deeper issues that require attention,” he stated. He recommended that the minister review existing laws to ensure that serious offenders receive life sentences and that adequate social protection is provided for women and children in Fiji.
Minister Tabuya has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the concerns raised by the two MPs.