Violence against women and girls remains a significant issue in Fiji, with nearly two-thirds of women witnessing physical or sexual violence throughout their lives. Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, expressed her concerns in light of a tragic incident last week where a woman in her mid-20s lost her life in Raiwaqa, allegedly at the hands of her partner, who subsequently fled the scene.
Tabuya conveyed her deep sorrow and outrage regarding this incident, which occurred just five months after another woman suffered a similar fate in April. “This must end,” she emphasized, urging individuals, families, and communities to unite against violence aimed at women and girls.
She highlighted the importance of solidarity, stating, “Every Fijian has a role to play in ensuring that our homes, neighborhoods, and communities are places of safety and respect for all women and girls.” Tabuya extended her condolences to the victim’s family and condemned the act of violence, calling it unacceptable and heartbreaking.
To women and girls facing such violence, she reassured that help is available through resources such as the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, the National Domestic Violence Helpline (1560), and the Child Helpline (1325). “You are not alone. We stand with you and will fight for justice for the victim. No woman should live in fear,” she stated.
Tabuya called for swift justice and immediate action from all societal levels to prevent further tragedies. She underscored that such violent acts should not go unanswered and stood in solidarity with the victim’s family and all those impacted.
She affirmed the ministry’s commitment to collaborating with the Fiji Police Force, community leaders, and other stakeholders to bolster preventative measures and enhance support services for survivors. “We call on every Fijian to be part of this journey to end violence in our homes and communities before it starts,” she concluded.