Fiji’s Minister for Women and Children, Lynda Tabuya, is considering proposing the death penalty for drug traffickers caught with large volumes of drugs. This proposal will be part of the review process of the 2013 Constitution.
Tabuya acknowledges the argument against the death penalty as a human rights issue. She believes it calls for a national debate on the balance between public interest to protect people.
Especially the youth and children, as well as individual rights to life and freedom from cruel and unusual punishment.
If the Cabinet agrees to include it in public consultations on the review of the 2013 Constitution. If Parliament passes it by a 75% majority, the proposal can be included.
A referendum by 75% of the registered voter public of Fiji is also required.
Tabuya believes that the public interest to protect children, youth, citizens, and borders outweighs individual rights to life and cruel and unusual punishment.
Fiji is a hub of the Pacific and is vulnerable to drug trafficking. It needs to protect itself from drug cartels and traffickers.
Those who profit illegally at the expense of the health, safety, and well-being of its people, especially children and youth.
As a sovereign state, Fiji must make a bold statement to deter the illicit drug trade.
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