Vosarogo warns of stricter licence rules as road fatalities surge

Government will review the laws governing road use and the issuance of driver licences, says Acting Prime Minister Filimoni Vosarogo.

The review will include stricter eligibility and re-testing requirements for new and existing licence holders.

Mr Vosarogo revealed this as he raised his concern over the alarming number of road accidents and fatalities recorded this year.

The latest data from the Fiji Police Force revealed that the national road death toll now stands at 65, compared to 51 during the same period last year, an increase of 14 deaths.

“The current trajectory is unacceptable,” Mr Vosarogo said in a statement.

“We cannot continue to lose lives at this rate and treat these deaths as statistics. Every fatality represents a son, daughter, parent, or friend whose life has been cut short and whose family must now live with that pain.

“Driving is a privilege not a right. With that privilege comes responsibility,” he added.

“We urge all motorists to obey the speed limits, avoid alcohol before driving, stay alert, and prioritise the safety of others on the road. If drivers show irresponsibility, government has no hesitation to amend and enforce laws to remove your privilege to drive permanently."

He added that the Government through the Ministry of Transport and the Land Transport Authority will work with the Fiji Police Force to develop a more comprehensive road safety framework aimed at reversing this disturbing trend. 

“Deaths on our roads must come to an end. The safety of our people is paramount, and Government will not hesitate to take strong and decisive action, including amending the laws to protect lives on our roads.”

Mr Vosarogo said the review of the laws governing road use and the issuance of driver licences may include: -

• Harsher penalties for drunk and reckless driving including minimum imprisonment term;
• Cancellation of licences for repeat offenders and imprisonment term for driving with a canceled licence;
• Increased roadside checks and enforcement operations; and
• The introduction of advanced driver education and rehabilitation programmes.

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