Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya has said the alleged nude video of her circulating on social media was a private video between two consenting adults “who are in a relationship, in this case me and my husband.”
In a statement she adds what she is dealing with is the grim reality of what two thirds of women and girls in Fiji face, and that is technology facilitated gender-based violence, or online violence.
“This type of violence occurs when private images and videos are circulated publicly with the person’s consent,” she said.
“It is a grievous form of cyber bullying and must stop if we are truly committed to ending violence against women and girls in Fiji.”
“There is nothing scandalous or illegal or immoral about sharing private videos and images between two consenting adults who are in a relationship, in this case me and my husband.”
Ms Tabuya adds It is the illegal obtaining and circulating of these private videos and images.”
“That is criminal.
“I am working closely with the authorities to identify and hold accountable those responsible for distributing the video online. I have evidence of one such person sharing it on email and I will be filing a police complaint against him under the Online Safety Act and the Crimes Act.”
“Let me make this very clear: the circulation of private images and videos, whether real or appears to be real (doctored or AI generated) without the person’s consent is a crime.’
“I warn anyone who is sharing the video through messenger or email or any online platform that you are committing a crime and will be held accountable and face serious legal consequences.”
