Women’s rights groups have raised their concerns on a statement made by Speaker of Parliament Dr Jiko Luveni on the issue of domestic violence.

In an article in yesterday’s Fiji Sun Dr Luveni said: “Sometimes we women aggravate the situation; sometimes we know exactly what our husbands don’t like and then we do it. What do you expect?”

FemLINKPACIFIC Young Women’s Leadership Team Leader, Frances Tawake said there was no excuse for violence.

“We need to acknowledge that violence against women and girls in Fiji is at a dangerous high with 64 per cent of women suffering physical and/or sexual violence by a husband or intimate partner in their lifetime and 24 per cent who are suffering from physical or sexual partner violence according to ‘Somebody’s life, Everybody’s Business’.

“We cannot afford these kinds of public comments to set us back any further.”

Emerging Leaders Forum Alumni Deputy Co-ordinator, Maryann Lockington said Dr Luveni’s comments marginalised young women and girls, who were also victims of violence and abuse.

“We need to make sure that young women are not only talked about when it comes to addressing these issues, but actively involved in the public debate – to stem the tide of intergenerational issues like the cycle of violence,” Ms Lockington said.

“It’s important to acknowledge and utilise young women’s expertise and their experiences in the fight against VAW and for gender equality, as was set out in our 2014 Fiji Young Women’s Forum Declaration.”

Diverse Voices and Action for Equality Member’s Collective also shared the same sentiments.

The group said given her public position as followed by the Speaker’s Debate held on May 9; it was clear that more progressive dialogue needed to happen – whether it was the need for marital counselling, anger management or balancing power relations in relationships.

Edited by Rusiate Mataika

Feedback: arieta.vakasukawaqa@fijisun.com.fj