Calls for enhanced village authority and constitutional reform took center stage during the public consultation on the Counter Narcotics Bill in Tavua. Community leaders expressed their frustrations regarding perceived legal obstacles that hinder their ability to address drug-related issues within their localities.
Village headman Apimeleki Vunisa shared a poignant example, detailing a recent incident where a community member was arrested on drug charges. Despite a collective decision among villagers to remove the individual for the sake of their community’s reputation, they were informed that such an eviction would require a court order. “We were told that we don’t have the authority to evict a person from the village unless it was court ordered,” Mr. Vunisa lamented.
He urged lawmakers to revise existing legislation to empower the Tui Tavua to evict individuals whose actions harm the vanua, suggesting a direct link between community governance and the integrity of village life.
Consultant Biu Matavou responded by outlining the legal framework governing these issues. He noted that while the 1997 Constitution acknowledged customary law, the 2013 Constitution has placed a greater emphasis on individual rights, effectively limiting the enforcement of village bylaws. Matavou acknowledged that these sentiments were echoed across the nation, reflecting a widespread concern.
While the reinstatement of customary powers presents legal challenges, Matavou mentioned the committee’s consideration of introducing “protected zone” provisions. These provisions aim to legally recognize villages and schools in drug prevention efforts, striving to find a balance between community autonomy and constitutional protections. This ongoing dialogue signifies a hopeful path forward, as communities seek to regain agency in combating the drug crisis while adhering to legal frameworks.