Fiji Labour Party Demands Urgent Action on Gender-Based Violence

Fiji Labour Party President Monica Raghwan has condemned the recent deaths of two women as a grim reminder of the deepening gender-based violence crisis in Fiji. She said the incidents, along with rising domestic violence cases, reflect a national emergency.

“As a woman, I feel the pain and fear that so many in our communities are experiencing. These are not just numbers — they are lives torn apart,” she said.

Raghwan criticized the Coalition Government’s response as inadequate and called for a clear strategy. She urged the government to increase funding for shelters, counselling services, and legal aid to better support survivors. She also emphasized the need for national education campaigns to challenge harmful gender norms and promote respect and equality.

The Labour Party also called for urgent economic relief measures to ease the burden on families, warning that financial stress can fuel violence. Raghwan stressed the importance of strengthening law enforcement to ensure accountability for perpetrators, and promoting community-led initiatives to support victims and build safer environments.

“As we approach Mother’s Day, these acts of violence feel even more painful. The government must act now to protect women and girls. Their safety and dignity must be a national priority,” she said.