Village leaders in Waidina are calling for tougher laws to tackle the growing drug problem and stronger protection for children, during the consultations on the constitutional review that was held in Nabukaluka Village in Naitasiri.
Nadakuni Village headman Inoke Raicama raised concerns about the increasing presence of hard drugs in communities and called for stronger action against those involved.
Raicama claimed that hard drugs were introduced from outside Fiji and proposed that anyone found in possession of such substances should be deported, regardless of their ethnicity.
Concerns about the welfare and safety of children were also raised during the consultations.Village elder Neumi Ranioro called for the return of traditional forms of discipline but stressed that any punishment should be carried out with care and love rather than anger.
He also called for tougher penalties for people who injure children.
School teacher Anare Rabukete supported the submissions, saying many teachers are finding it increasingly difficult to manage student behaviour.
Rabukete says some children have become more difficult to discipline, highlighting what he believes is a need to restore respect in homes, schools and communities.
The Constitutional Review Commission will consider the submissions as consultations continue around the country.
