As questions continue to be raised by SODELPA, the National Federation Party and the NGO Coalition on Human Rights on Ben Groenewald’s resignation as Police Commissioner and his claims that there was military interference in policing, the government has made it clear that no further comments will be made on the issue.
These organizations have made statements over the past three days however the government’s decision stands.
The government had earlier stated that Groenewald has submitted written notification for an early release from his contractual appointment as the Commissioner of the Police with effect from Tuesday. It said this was for personal and family reasons.
Following advice from the Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama as the Chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission, former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau appointed Sitiveni Qiliho as the Acting Commissioner of Police with effect from Wednesday for a period of three months or when a substantive appointment is made to the position of the Commissioner of the Fiji Police Force.
The government confirms that a draft advertisement for the position of the Commissioner of Police has been circulated to the members of the Constitutional Offices Commission.
Upon finalisation of the advertisement, the position will be advertised.
Opposition Leader, Ro Teimumu Kepa and opposition nominee, Richard Naidu are also members of the Constitutional Offices Commission.
The commission recommends constitutional appointments to the President however they had earlier agreed that the Commission Chairman, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama can make acting appointments for up to three months while the position is advertised.
