Drug offenders should face life terms, CRC told

With Fiji grappling with the growing impact of illegal drug use in communities, Vatutu Village headman Viliame Tuiserua has proposed life imprisonment for drug offenders.

The recommendation was part of his submission to the Constitution Review Commission (CRC) consultation in Nawaka, Nadi yesterday.

Mr Tuiserua said tougher penalties were needed to protect families and young people from the harmful effects of drugs.

He proposed that all drug-related offences carry life sentences, arguing that stronger laws were necessary to deter criminal activity and safeguard future generations.

"We have many people involved in drugs in Fiji who do not seem to be afraid of the consequences. Put them all on life terms in prison," Mr Tuiserua said.

His submission also covered a range of constitutional and social issues.

Mr Tuiserua called for the removal of the immunity provisions protecting individuals involved in coups.

On education, he said parents should face legal consequences if their children fail to attend school without valid reasons.

Addressing economic concerns, he said the minimum wage should be increased to help families cope with the rising cost of living.

"The price of food in Fiji keeps rising, especially during this crisis, so increase the minimum wage to $10 or more," he said.

Among his other recommendations were stricter enforcement of village by-laws, the reintroduction of corporal punishment to strengthen discipline and the closure of non-essential businesses on Sundays.

"We need a Constitution that protects our people and our future," Mr Tuiserua said.

He urged the CRC to consider reforms that place greater emphasis on accountability, discipline and community responsibility.