Fiji’s illicit drug trade has spiraled out of control, fueled by weak border control systems and past leadership failures, according to Tui Vuda spokesman, Ratu Meli Tora.
“We were working with a system that was either weak or corrupt,” Ratu Meli said.
“There were leaders who were supposed to look after our people and their wellbeing who were involved and allowed this to happen.
“So we are now dealing with the consequences of their decisions back then.”
Ratu Meli said the time has come for traditional leaders to take charge of their communities, closely monitoring activities within their vanua.
“Now it is time to micromanage. We have to look at each and every community under our vanua and ensure these activities are not happening at our doorstep.
“Instead of only looking outside, we must work internally – strengthen our vanua committees, our development committees, and continue to talk about this issue.”
Tui Vuda stressed that education and community engagement were key and that authorities, including the police, military, and Fiji Navy, must assist in teaching locals about the dangers of drug involvement.
The Ba Provincial Council chairman reinforced the call for stronger enforcement.
“The police cannot do this alone. They need the assistance of our military and the Fiji Navy. Get everyone involved, because this will continue if we do not strengthen security and enforcement agencies.
“For a long time, they worked in silos. Now is the time for them to work together to protect our people, our vanua, and our future.”
Ratu Meli said his message was clear.
“Fiji’s communities must reclaim control, strengthen internal oversight, and unite with security forces to combat a drug crisis threatening the nation’s next generation.”
Leaders step up fight against drugs
THE Vanua o Vuda will begin enforcing a ban on drugs and all drug-related activities from February 2, joining a growing number of traditional leaders taking proactive steps to combat the illicit drug trade.
Tui Vuda spokesman Ratu Meli Tavaiqia said the decision followed extensive discussions with village elders amid rising concerns over drug-related incidents in the Western Division.
“We have done a full survey of every person living within our villages,” Ratu Meli said.
“We have their names, ages, whether they are in school or working, and for those who are employed, where they work. This information will help us monitor who is coming into and leaving our villages.”
As part of the initiative, village authorities may also impose curfews. Ratu Meli said a 9pm curfew could be
enforced for children, while adults would be required to be indoors by 11pm.
Kava sessions may also be halted at 11pm to allow men to assist with village security.
“If we are going to stop marijuana or hard drugs from entering our villages, we must be vigilant.”
The former schoolteacher added that protecting and educating the younger generation was a key priority.
He acknowledged that disciplinary approaches had changed over time.
“In the past, students were disciplined aggressively, but that is no longer appropriate.
“We are dealing with a different generation, and aggression is not the solution.”
He stressed the importance of strengthening family units and encouraging parents to educate their children about the realities facing their communities.
“We must focus on our children and raise them to respect and follow the law.”
