RNZ report
The creator of an online “movement”, a self-described “non-registered brand” in its infancy, wants the Fijian government to decriminalise the use and cultivation of marijuana in the country.
Cannabis Fiji – described by its founder Anare Tuidraki as having “absolutely no affiliation… to any political group” – has gathered more than 700 signatures in an online petition it started eight months ago.
The petitions stated goal is: “The decriminalisation and regulation of cannabis in Fiji, ensuring the industry prioritises the rights and benefits of Fijian citizens, indigenous landowners, and rural communities. The petition also calls for the release of individuals imprisoned for non-violent cannabis-related offences, aligning with global justice reforms.”
Tuidraki told RNZ Pacific his group, which is viewed locally as a fringe movement, is demanding government to give them “freedom to be able to use medical, industrial and recreational cannabis without being vilified”.
He said the group – which has plans to register as a non-governmental organisation and form a political party to advocate for cannabis reform – also wants “cannabis prisoners” released for the use of non-violent cannabis or the cultivation of non-violent cannabis.
The possession, cultivation and use of marijuana are illegal in Fiji and those caught with it face severe penalties under Fiji’s illicit drugs laws, including life imprisonment.
The Fijian Cabinet, however, formally announced approval to establish a medicinal cannabis industry – strictly for cultivation and export – following nationwide consultations in early February 2024.
The previous FijiFirst government amended the Illicit Drugs Control Act (2004) to remove industrial hemp from the list of illicit drugs. The Act legalised the importation, possession, cultivation, and supply of industrial hemp, defined as cannabis plants with a THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) concentration of less than 1 percent.
Tuidraki said he started the Cannabis Fiji movement “the very minute the announcement came that [the government was] about to legalise hemp”.
The Fiji Police have a zero-tolerance policy against possession, use and cultivation of marijuana, and make frequent arrests in targeted operations to eradicate large scale marijuana cultivation.
RNZ Pacific asked Tuidraki about how he reconciled what his Cannabis Fiji movement is advocating for when the country’s drug laws make it illegal.
“Well, first things first, the legislation would have to fall in line with my ask,” he said.
“Once the legislation is done, then you’d have a framework, then the implementation of what’s in the framework to ensure that everything runs smoothly.”
“So right now, it’s just an idea I’m putting out there and we’re pushing for. For me to actually give you the details, that’s a big ask of you.”
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