Fiji’s Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua has expressed concerns regarding the ministry’s role in tackling the country’s drug problem, suggesting it may not be the most suitable entity for such a complex issue. During a recent speech at a Rotary Club of Labasa fundraiser, he emphasized that the ministry is primarily responsible for law enforcement, indicating that a more comprehensive approach is necessary.
Mr. Tikoduadua proposed that the fight against drugs would be better coordinated under a different ministry, such as social protection, which could address the issue more holistically. He highlighted the limitations of the police role, where interventions often occur after drugs have already been distributed or consumed, with enforcement actions primarily focusing on making arrests rather than preventative measures.
He pointed out that relying solely on force is not an effective solution, advocating for a strategy that targets the root causes of drug abuse. In pursuit of better management of this pressing social issue, Tikoduadua mentioned ongoing collaborations with the Ministry of Finance to enhance resources allocated to the Narcotics Unit.
Moreover, he stressed the importance of community involvement, inviting civil society to contribute ideas and play an integral role in national efforts to combat drug-related problems, noting that every community is affected by this issue.
This approach reflects a growing understanding that addressing drug issues often requires a multifaceted strategy that incorporates social support and prevention in addition to law enforcement. The emphasis on community involvement presents an optimistic view that collective efforts can yield significant progress against drug abuse in Fiji.
Overall, Mr. Tikoduadua’s remarks suggest a proactive shift towards addressing drug-related issues more comprehensively, providing hope for future improvements in public health and community well-being.
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