Lal Challenges Tabuya’s Call

The call by Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya for ‘Death Penalty’ to be imposed for those who traffic drugs in large quantity has not been well received.

Shadow Minister for Justice for the Group of 16 (G16), Ketan Lal said that Fiji should be advocating for life sentences for rapists and pushing for laws that ensure justice for survivors than calling for death penalties.

Mr Lal said that he was particularly disheartened that Ms Tabuya, who holds the portfolio for Women, Children, and Social Protection, is advocating for such an extreme measure.

“It is the duty of her office to champion the protection and empowerment of the most vulnerable in our society, including victims of heinous crimes like rape,” Mr Lal said.

“Rape is a crime that destroys lives and leaves scars that often never heal,” he said.

“It is, without question, one of the most heinous crimes that can be committed, and it demands our utmost attention and a response that reflects its gravity.”

Mr Lal said Fiji’s focus should be on creating a legal framework that provides swift and certain justice for victims of sexual violence, while also ensuring that the rights of all individuals are protected.

“This is where our energy and resources should be directed not towards reintroducing the death penalty, but towards fighting for the lives and rights of those who have suffered the most.

“While the fight against drug trafficking must continue with all necessary vigour, it must be done within the bounds of our Constitution and our commitment to human rights,” Mr Lal said.

“Let us not allow fear to drive us to adopt measures that are both unconstitutional and ineffective.

“Instead, let us focus on strengthening our laws against crimes like rape, ensuring that justice is served, and that the rights of all Fijians are upheld.”

International Bid

Mr Lal said while it is undeniable that drug trafficking is a serious crime that must be addressed with strong legal measures, pro-posing the death sentence is a step that directly contradicts Fiji’s constitutional principles and international obligations.

Fiji’s Constitution, particularly Articles 8, enshrines the right to life and the protection against cruel and degrading treatment, he said.

Constitution of the Republic of Fiji, Article 8: ˜Every person has the right to life, and a person must not be arbitrarily deprived of life.

Reintroducing the death penalty would not only violate these fundamental rights but also erode the very fabric of our justice system, which is grounded in the protection of human dignity and the rule of law, he said.

Fiji’s commitment to international treaties that oppose the death penalty reflects our nation’s dedication to upholding human rights on the global stage.

Mr Lal said any move to reinstate such a draconian measure would be a regressive step, undermining our international standing and moral authority.

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