Split views from Government on emergency powers for drug crisis

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says a State of Emergency is “very seriously” being considered to tackle Fiji’s growing drug crisis, even as his own Minister for Defence says it remains the “last resort”.

Mr Rabuka said any escalation would come only on the recommendation of Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu and Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai.

“That is very seriously considered now and we can only work on the recommendation of the Commissioner and the Commander,” Mr Rabuka said.

Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua, however, signalled caution, saying joint military–Police operations were already producing results.

“A State of Emergency is usually the last thing that is done,” Mr Tikoduadua said.

“Right now, we are in one step and the joint operations are happening and it’s reaping the benefits. Things are toning down.”

He said if the Prime Minister and Cabinet were satisfied an emergency was necessary, “that’s a decision that the PM and the Cabinet is going to make.”

Under Chapter 9 of the 2013 Constitution, a State of Emergency can be declared if the security and safety of Fiji is threatened. It allows certain rights under the Bill of Rights to be limited, but only to the extent strictly necessary.

Opposition response

Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu urged caution, saying: “Every decision that is taken has implications.”

He said the Prime Minister must consider all available advice, including from the National Security Council.

Opposition MP Premila Kumar said if an emergency declaration could solve the drug and HIV crisis, “why not, but a national emergency should not be treated as something where human rights are taken away.”

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