Tui Nayau urges urgent action on Fiji’s drug crisis

Tui Nayau Ratu Tevita Lutunauga Kapaiwai Uluilakeba Mara has issued a stark warning about Fiji's escalating drug crisis, stating that a new generation of drug dealers will emerge if the government does not act swiftly and decisively. He believes that continued neglect of Fijian communities in the face of the epidemic will lead to youths realizing the "true worth of drug finds."

“

Through that gross negligence, we will have bred an entirely new generation of drug dealers. The window to act is now, and it is closing.

"Through that gross negligence, we will have bred an entirely new generation of drug dealers. The window to act is now, and it is closing," Ratu Tevita stated. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive, society-wide response, urging the government to step back from a top-down approach and engage in genuine partnership with the Vanua, or traditional governance structures.

“

Every layer of our society has a role – but only if Government steps back from the podium and into genuine partnership with the Vanua.

The Tui Nayau also issued a direct call to the people of Lau, commanding them to protect their shores. "And to our own people I say: stand, and watch over your shores as your fathers did before you. We are the first line of defence, and we will not surrender our seas, our homes and our villages to those who would poison them," he declared.

“

And to our own people I say: stand, and watch over your shores as your fathers did before you. We are the first line of defence, and we will not surrender our seas, our homes and our villages to those who would poison them.

He specifically called for the restoration of customary and village by-laws, which were removed by the previous government, arguing that their absence has created a dangerous vacuum. Ratu Tevita stressed that traditional structures are ready to be empowered with legal standing, funding, and resources. He also requested the state to equip and support communities with necessary gear, constabulary assistance, and drug test kits for immediate verification of drug finds. Furthermore, the Tui Nayau suggested redirecting funds from conferences towards awareness campaigns and equipping coastal communities.

“

The traditional structures are intact and ready; give them back their legal standing, funding and resources to work.