Ministry raises concern and urges action after violent attack on elderly couple in Labasa

The Ministry for Women, Children and Social Protection is very concerned about the recent attack on an elderly couple in Labasa where one of the victims is still in serious condition at the Labasa Hospital while the other has been treated and is now recovering at home.

The Ministry acknowledged the Fiji Police Force for their quick response and ongoing investigation and also urged the public to stay alert and look out for the older persons in their communities.

They are urging people to show care and kindness and help keep them safe. Minister Sashi Kiran says it is very troubling that our older persons are being targeted in violent acts.

She says this is completely unacceptable as older people deserve to be treated with respect and to live in peace and safety.

Kiran says this incident is a sad reminder of how vulnerable many of our senior citizens are and we must all do our part to protect them. She says disrespect of our older persons shows that we failed as a society in instilling these values in our younger ones.

The Minister says it's important to teach our young the value and respect of our older persons and these teachings need to come from families, schools and religious leaders.

She calls on all Fijians, especially our young people, to show respect, compassion and care for the elderly.

Kiran says those who hurt our elders will face the full brunt of the law.

The Minister says the Government continues to support our older citizens through programs like social protection and healthcare.

She says the Ministry will keep working closely with the Police and other partners to stop violence and abuse against the elderly.

The Minister is urging our senior citizens, to please stay connected with their communities, and if they feel unsafe or threatened, do not hesitate to reach out to local authorities or nearby support services.

Kiran says their safety is our priority, and we should all come together as one community to ensure that our elderly can live with dignity, safety, and peace in their homes.