Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran urges women who are in abusive relationships, or who fear they could be in harm's way, to reach out for help.
Kiran says the loss of three lives due to partner related violence this weekend is truly tragic and gut-wrenching.
She says it is a heart-breaking reminder that despite the awareness campaigns, counselling services, and legislation the government has put in place, we continue to witness such senseless acts of violence in our communities.
Kiran says in each of these tragic cases, innocent children have lost their parents, leaving them emotionally scarred for life.
She says these deaths were avoidable, and their impact has left families shattered and mourning.
The Minister says this is a painful reality we must confront, and she calls on every Fijian to join in a collective commitment to zero tolerance of all forms of violence in our homes and communities.
Kiran says as the Fiji Police Force continues its investigations into this tragedy, they stand with the victims' families during this incredibly difficult time.
Kiran says the Government has invested significant resources in the prevention of gender-based violence.
They have provided funding to non-governmental organizations to support vital services, and there is strong inter-agency cooperation through Government mechanisms.
However, Kiran says these acts of violence continue to occur within the very families and communities we strive to protect.
The Minister says the issue of family violence must be addressed at every level—within our homes, our communities, and throughout our society.
She says we must establish prevention committees in each community, to educate, intervene, and de-escalate situations before they escalate to violence.
She adds we must work together to stop this cycle of destruction. Kiran says they have toll-free counselling services available, and they are here to support you.
She also asks our elders and men to speak openly with their peers and encourage them to seek help if they are feeling distressed.
The Minister stresses that violence is never the answer—if a relationship is no longer working, it is better to separate amicably and with dignity.
