Tui Wailevu Ratu Sitiveni Niumataiwalu is calling for the introduction of the death penalty for drug offenders, warning current penalties are too weak to deter crime.
He said the Government must adopt a stricter approach to drugs.
“The Government needs to be much stricter.
“Harsher punishments need to be introduced. Some are calling for corporal punishment or even the death penalty,” he said.
“Otherwise, people will not stop.”
Ratu Sitiveni said financial penalties no longer discourage offenders.
“Human beings only stop when they see a real barrier. Money these days does not stop anyone from getting into the drug business.”
He advised locals not to get involved in drugs, stressing that authorities would eventually catch offenders.
“My advice to anyone within the district is not to get involved in drugs. There are systems and processes in place, and authorities will eventually catch up.”
He added that harsher measures should only follow if offenders repeatedly break the law and warned against harming families by removing someone from the community.
“That’s why institutions such as St Giles and other Government facilities, where psychologists and professionals can help, must be used first,” he said.
Province youth vice-president Pita Saladoka backed the call for the death penalty to protect young people.
“It would help control drug use, especially among youths today. We have been raising awareness in families, communities, meetings, and churches,” he said.
Saladoka said drug use was increasing, with many teenagers already addicted.
“Teenagers are easily influenced. That is why I believe the Government should be very strict when it comes to penalties related to drugs.”
Another youth, Osea Lautiki, said harsher penalties were needed to prevent more young people from falling victim.
“If penalties are stricter, people will be more cautious. Drugs are dangerous. They are harmful, especially to teenagers, because of the chemicals they contain,” he said.
