Justice Salesi Temo has again made an important sentencing ruling. It is one that would have  widespread support.

He sentenced 40-year-old security officer Josua Colanaudolu to life imprisonment for murder and multiple rapes.

He ordered that Colanaudolu serve a minimum of 30 years imprisonment before he can be considered for a pardon by the President.

Does this sentencing give a stern warning to those rapists and would-be rapists and sexual offenders who are still out there? We hope so. We hope it will set a benchmark for more deterrent sentences.

Rape, sexual assault and other sex crimes are issues that are more and more alarming and disturbing for a nation like ours.

The statistics provided each month by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions make shocking reading. They also build awareness, as intended. Awareness of how serious the issue is today.

Back in the days, like most Pacific Island countries, women and young girls would walk the street without fear. Families would leave their homes open without the need of ensuring that doors were locked.

Not any more. Grandmothers, mothers, daughters and now even young boys are becoming victims of sexual violence.

Extended families are becoming worried. Those in both the rural and urban settings are becoming disturbed as to whom they can trust their children with.

More deterrent sentences are welcome.

But it cannot be left to the courts alone, and judges like Justice Temo.

Others need to step up too.

Are our religious leaders doing enough?

Are our chiefs and village headmen properly addressing the matter?

What about wives, are they having an open conversation with their husbands and children?

Can the activities of some of our Non-Government Organisations be more effective?

Rape, domestic abuse, incest, and indecent assault have consistently been labelled significant problems in reports. Spousal rape is also an offence and it is good to see the courts enforcing this law.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has regularly highlighted all these problems and the need for a community wide effort against them.

Police Commissioner Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho has said that Police will charge the sexual offenders regardless of traditional forgiveness practices.

Such steps are all worthy.

Sentences like that imposed by Justice Temo are especially welcome.

But much more is needed.

Everyone needs to be involved.

Enough with the ‘taboo’ mentality of not discussing this issue at home or religious gatherings. Let’s work together with the authorities and the courts.

Let’s address this issue. Let’s work together to protect our women and children, everyday in every community.

Feedback:  losirene.lacanivalu@fijisun.com.fj