Children should never become victims of family disputes, be it big or small.

Sadly, the recent cases in Nadi and Labasa demonstrates that children are being used as objects or targets to vent out anger and frustration for the adults.

It is heartbreaking that their demise is no fault of their own, but allegedly through those who have nurtured and loved them.

In Nadi, the circumstance surrounding the burning death of a mother and daughter was linked to relationship problems between the couple.

The father who was on Domestic Restraining Order (DVRO) had met his wife and daughter earlier at the Nadi Court.

In Labasa, a man allegedly threw his four children into the Labasa River from a boat and then jumped into the water. One of the children managed to survive.

Yesterday, the body of the second eldest child was found. Two children remain missing along with their father.

Again, continuous domestic problems between the couple was said to be the cause of the fall-out.

If children are to be the target of domestic disputes, who will be there to protect them? Who will be there to assist them?

This is a sad wake-up call for parents and guardians. It is our duty, our responsibility to nurture, love, protect and raise our children to be good citizens of this country.

It is our responsibility to keep them from harm. Not use their weakness to threaten or injure another.

And just in case parents and guardians are clueless about what some of their responsibilities are, the 2013 Constitution is an ideal place to start.

Section 41 of the Bill of Rights regarding the Rights of Children clearly states:

“Every child has the right (c) to family care, protection and guidance, which includes the equal responsibility of the child’s parents to provide for the child –

(i) whether or not the parents are, or have ever been, married to each other; and

(ii) whether or not the parents are living together, have lived together, or are separated;

(d) to be protected from abuse, neglect, harmful cultural practices, any form of violence, inhumane treatment and punishment, and hazardous or exploitative labour.”

As parents, let’s get our act together! Our children are quietly watching, absorbing our every move! They deserve a secure future.

ROSI DOVIVERATA

Feedback:  rosi.doviverata@fijisun.com.fj