Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Hon. Professor Biman Prasad has condemned drug use as a national crisis that threatens not only individuals but also families and communities. He emphasized the dire consequences for the country if drug use is not firmly opposed.
Speaking at the conclusion of the Gold N Water Carnival 2024 in Tavua, Professor Prasad highlighted the carnival’s theme, “Educating and Empowering the Wider Community to ‘Say No to Drugs’,” describing it as both timely and important.
“Say no to drugs; say no to violence against our women and children,” he urged.
He noted that while the government has implemented a national strategy on drug and narcotics control, there is a renewed emphasis on the police force and related agencies.
“I urge all young people and everyone who may have encountered drugs in any form to say no, because it not only harms you but also devastates your families and friends, undermining the productivity and social and economic structure of our nation,” he stated.
Professor Prasad pointed out that across the globe, the impact of hard drugs has led to the destruction of countries, families, and individuals.