Government awaiting results of ministers’ drug tests

The Government is awaiting the Fiji Police Force to release the results of drug tests carried out on Cabinet Ministers as part of efforts to address Fiji’s growing drug crisis.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka confirmed this while speaking on the Voqa ni Davui programme earlier this week.

Mr Rabuka has mandated drug testing for all ministers, Members of Parliament and civil servants.

The tests are being conducted by the Fiji Police Force medical team.

Mr Rabuka said a number of Cabinet Ministers had volunteered and already undergone testing earlier this month, including Minister for Information and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya.

“The testing was part of Government’s wider push to take a stand against drugs, with leaders to lead by example,” Mr Rabuka said.

His comments come amid growing concern over increasing drug use across the country, particularly among young people.

Mr Rabuka said drugs were destroying the lives of many youths in Fiji and the Government wanted to combat drug use through the initiative.

In recent months, Police and community leaders have repeatedly raised concerns about the rise in drug-related cases in Fiji, with calls for stronger action and awareness programmes to address the issue.

Meanwhile, the Government’s decision to have Cabinet Ministers tested is being viewed as an effort to promote accountability and strengthen public confidence as authorities continue the fight against illegal drugs.