Residents of Tavua have called for the reinstatement of corporal punishment as a disciplinary measure, arguing it can help stem the growing influence of narcotics in their communities.
The proposal was raised during the Counter Narcotics Bill public consultation at Tavualevu Village on February 13, where Sanivalati Nasau presented a formal submission on behalf of Nabuna Village.
“I have a request from the village of Nabuna for corporal punishment to be permitted within schools, villages and families,” Mr Nasau said.
He argued that reintroducing the practice would strengthen the hand of those in authority.
“If it is permitted in schools and villages, this will also assist teachers.”
Responding to the submission, consultation team member and consultant Biu Matavou said the call was not unique to Tavua. Mr Matavou noted that similar views had been expressed in other parts of the country during public consultations conducted by various government bodies.
“I believe the subcommittee for education has also been travelling around and many similar suggestions have been made to include corporal punishment in the Education Act,” he said.
While acknowledging that corporal punishment remains a sensitive and widely debated national issue, the consultation team clarified that the recommendation was being considered specifically in the context of drug prevention.
“Your suggestions are noted for corporal punishment to be allowed only for those found with drugs.”
