Deputy Commissioner of Corrections Akuila Namakadre speaking at the close of the 
16 Days of Activism on the Elimination of Violence Against Women.


We can create a harmonious society with no violence against women and children, said the Deputy Commissioner of Corrections Akuila Namakadre.

Speaking as chief guest at the close of the 16 Days of Activism on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children, Mr Namakadre said we must act together to reduce the violence used towards women and children and resist further violence against them.

“We can help wiping away tears and pains from women’s hearts by altering attitude, changing the way we speak.

“But in order to do this we must commit ourselves to building a better world and a better community. We must read and educate ourselves about violence against women or against any group of people,” Mr Namakadre said.

He said we must learn to speak up when small acts of injustice are committed, knowing that they are profoundly connected to larger and more tangible acts of injustice.

“We must not stop until we all can feel safe in our own homes. But most importantly, let us commit ourselves to a world where women’s voices are heard, their words are recognized, and the need for community and freedom become more important than self advancement and tradition,” he said.

Mr Namakadre added that as a long serving Corrections officer, he knew all too well the profound impact of incarceration on women and the society.

“We need to include the least empowered members of our community – the victims, their families and friends – in our search for solutions,” he said.

www.corrections.org.fj