JYOTI PRATIBHA
Suva
Fijian women have been pulled off buses and beaten for wearing shorts, an American newspaper quotes independent election candidate and women’s activist Roshika Deo as saying.
She is also quoted as saying women fear travelling in taxis because they could be raped. The prominent Des Moines Register newspaper also quotes Ms Deo as saying elections are only being held this year because of sanctions, and polls will not be free and fair.
The newspaper said Ms Deo made the comments while on her American Government funded visit to the USA. There she was named one of 10 International Women of Courage by the Americans.
Last night Ms Deo – who is now back in Fiji – said: “The article in question is an example of a sensationalised and irresponsible journalism. I have registered my disappointment with the writer, the management of the exchange programme and the US Department of State at the manner the article has been presented.”
She said she was misquoted or quoted out of the context. The newspaper further stated that “Deo said the military dictatorship that’s currently in power in Fiji has enforced strict rules ranging from banning any sect or parish meetings and promoting an anti-feminist agenda to squelching any activism efforts.”
It further stated that: “She said in Fiji women and girls have been on their way to play sporting events and have been taken off buses and beaten because they are wearing shorts and added that most women are too afraid of being raped to take taxis in Fiji.”
The Des Moines Register wrote: “Indianola students had the opportunity to learn what it’s like growing up in a country full of political instability, hostile government takeovers and a military dictatorship from a woman who experienced it firsthand.”
Feedback: jyotip@fijisun.com.fj