Former parliamentarian Niko Nawaikula has urged the Fijian Government to expedite the establishment of village bylaws, noting that the current absence of legal frameworks is leaving rural communities vulnerable to drug issues. During a Ministry of Policing and Communications consultation regarding Fiji’s proposed counter-narcotics law, Nawaikula emphasized the necessity of including rural communities within the draft legislation.
He expressed frustration over the government’s delays in implementing village bylaws, which he argues has led to confusion among village leaders as they navigate drug-related problems. “For instance, if someone is found with drugs, village leaders may think they can force that individual out of the community. Legally, that isn’t permissible without established bylaws, which puts everyone at risk of breaching the law,” he pointed out.
Nawaikula also underscored the importance of bylaws in upholding traditional values within villages, such as customs, respect, and proper conduct. This appeal comes amid growing concerns about the impact of drug use in rural areas and the need for proactive measures to protect communities.
The urgency for legal structures highlights the broader conversation around community safety and the need for appropriate legislative support to empower village authorities in managing local issues effectively. By prioritizing the implementation of village bylaws, the government could bolster community resilience against drug-related challenges while promoting a framework for upholding cultural norms and values.