The Fiji Labour Party has expressed concern that an attempted rape case involving a minor was finally called off by the victim as she got frustrated with it being put off repeatedly over a six year period.
According to the party, the matter was repeatedly deferred due to an overloaded criminal justice system and priority being given to high-profile cases.
They say Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Nancy Tikoisuva had stated that the prioritisation of high profile cases, often driven by public and media pressure, pushed vulnerable victims, especially children, further down the queue.
FLP says the explanation is unacceptable.
They say the girl, now 13 years old, was six when the case was filed in the Nasinu Magistrates Court in November 2020, alleging attempted rape by her uncle.
They add that the matter had reached trial stage several times but was repeatedly deferred.
The Party says the child would have suffered trauma and distress during the six-year period and says her frustration with the court system is understandable.
They say the withdrawal leaves the alleged perpetrator off the hook for a heinous crime against a minor while the victim is left without closure.
FLP President Monica Raghwan says there should be a “no drop” charge even if the girl or her family no longer wish to pursue the matter to ensure justice is served.
Raghwan says the justice system must be reformed to deal swiftly with sensitive rape and sexual abuse cases so victims can receive timely and effective justice without prolonged suffering.
She also says sensitive cases involving minors should be held in camera to protect victims from undue publicity while ensuring they receive trauma counselling and support without delay.
