“They are going to stay.”
That was the firm response from Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua to calls by the NGO Coalition for the suspension of Fiji’s Joint Task Force amid growing concern over the country’s escalating drug crisis.
The coalition questioned the role and effectiveness of the task force, saying incidents surrounding the deaths of Jone Vakarise and Sakiasi Radravu were not isolated procedural failures but signs of a deeper erosion of the rule of law within its operations.
However, Mr Tikoduadua said the Government remained committed to the operation as authorities continued efforts to combat drug trafficking and protect communities.
He said the fight against drugs was not solely the responsibility of the police, military or Government, but a challenge facing the entire nation.
“The issue of drugs is a problem that belongs to all of us because it affects everybody across the cross-section of our society,” he said.
“So, a solution that comes from Fiji needs to be a common one. It’s not only for the police, it’s not only a defence issue related to government. It’s everyone together.”
Mr Tikoduadua said Government agencies were continuing their efforts despite limited resources, with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces working alongside police to strengthen security operations.
“What we are doing, Government is doing its best from a defence perspective.
“We’ve got the Navy out there in the sea, even though we’ve only got two boats, and then we’re working with the police to try and keep our streets safe.”
While acknowledging criticism from civil society groups, he defended the joint operation.
“We appreciate and we thank them for their views and opinion.
“Not everything is perfect, but this is something that we are doing together to try and keep our people safe.”
