The Fiji Labour Party (FLP) is advocating for comprehensive reforms in response to what it perceives as an escalating national drug crisis and concerns regarding institutional integrity. The Party emphasizes that the government must take decisive action rather than making excuses for the current situation.
In a recent statement, the FLP asserted the necessity of establishing an independent National Drug and Institutional Integrity Commission. This commission should consist of impartial experts, including forensic auditors and intelligence analysts, rather than individuals currently serving in enforcement roles who might be investigating their colleagues.
Furthermore, the FLP has called for a Public National Security Briefing. This briefing is aimed at providing the public with clear insights into the persistent influx of drugs into Fiji, identifying enforcement gaps, analyzing failed political decisions, and outlining the urgent reforms needed to address these issues.
The Party criticized the Prime Minister for not making a comprehensive statement about the situation, despite increasing public concern. They emphasized that true leadership involves taking decisive actions rather than merely issuing press comments.
The FLP also raised questions about the level of national security oversight exercised by the Prime Minister, who heads the National Security Council, asserting that silence is not an acceptable response to a crisis of this magnitude.
Moreover, the Party is advocating for enhanced oversight of the police force and other enforcement agencies, proposing measures such as personnel rotations, lifestyle audits, whistle-blower protections, and external monitoring to reinforce accountability and integrity.
The FLP argues that addressing the drug crisis necessitates a transparent and honest approach, along with structural changes. They state unequivocally that simply focusing on marijuana as the primary issue is not sufficient. The Party emphasizes that tackling institutional corruption cannot be achieved through superficial measures like suspending a few officers, nor can national security be preserved by adhering to outdated policing models.
In a plea for urgent action, the FLP insists that honesty, courage, and reform are critical to safeguarding Fiji’s security, stability, and international standing. The Party’s stance underscores the importance of a proactive and multifaceted approach to confronting these challenges for the future well-being of Fiji.