In a powerful display of unity and leadership, three paramount chiefs from the Western Division, namely Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci, Tui Sabeto Ratu Viliame Mataitoga, and Tui Nawaka Ratu Joeli Naevo, have taken a resolute stand against illicit drugs.
Their firm conviction deserves commendation, widespread support, and serious consideration from both Government and members of the public.
The chiefs’ stance echoes the timeless slogan, ‘United We Stand, Divided We Fall,’ emphasising the collective responsibility in combating illicit drugs.
Traditionally, Fijian society, especially the iTaukei community, look up to chiefs as esteemed leaders anointed to guide our provinces, districts, and villages.
The call for more united and national fight against illicit drugs follows the country’s biggest drug haul at Legalega, Nadi, on Sunday, which uncovered three tonnes of suspected methamphetamine, valued at about $2 billion according to police sources.
This revelation not only exposes a chink in Fiji’s security and defence armour but poses a significant threat to the country’s global tourism image.
Nadi, a pivotal entry point and a hub in Fiji’s tourism industry, is now grappling with the repercussions of being labelled by the Fiji Police Force as a hotspot for illicit substances.
Urgent calls from local entities such as the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Nadi Town Council, highlight the seriousness of the issue.
It needs swift and effective action.
The seizure exposes the loopholes in our border control, immigration operations, and intelligence gathering.
The magnitude of the drug find suggests a sophisticated operation that cannot be ignored or treated as mere ‘news of the day’.
It demands a comprehensive and immediate response from Government and its ministries, law enforcement, churches, education ministry, Fiji Police Force, and stakeholders.
Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua rightly points out that these drugs are not just a threat to public health but also a danger to Fiji’s socio-political fabric.
His call for a legislative review, strengthened laws, harsher penalties, and tougher sentences against offenders is a step in the right direction and should be implemented ASAP.
Moreover, the commitment of the chiefs against illicit drugs should be a continuous effort.
Allocating significant funds in the National Budget to eradicate the roots of the drug trade is needed.
Additionally, the education ministry must play a proactive role in preventing the infiltration of illicit drugs into schools, safeguarding students from becoming mules and pawns.
As the chiefs act as guardians of the people, their stance should be wholeheartedly supported by the community.
Parents, in particular, play a pivotal role in educating children about the dangers of illicit drugs, ensuring a safer and healthier future for Fiji’s population.
In the words of U.S. businesswoman Annie Danielson: “Home is where your story begins.”
By educating our children about the dangers of illicit drugs, we can safeguard our social fabric, protect its pristine environment, and preserve our global image for generations to come.
Feedback: maikeli.vesikula@fijisun.com.fj
