Minister for Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua says the recent conviction of the suspended Commissioner of Police would have, in practice, created a vacancy in the office of the Commissioner.
Tikoduadua says as Minister for Home Affairs, he acknowledges the recent statements made by Republic of Fiji Military Forces Director of legal Services, Colonel Kitione Tuinaosara regarding the pressing issue of illicit drugs and the appointment of a permanent Commissioner of Police.
He says they are awaiting the decision of the Constitutional Offices Commission on the matter.
Tikoduadua says the urgency to appoint a new COMPOL is recognized, and the government is actively working towards a resolution.
Colonel Tuinaosara had read out a message from Army Commander Major General Jone Kalouniwai during the Ministry of Home Affairs Talanoa Session on Responding To The Illicit Drugs Situation in Fiji, when he asked him why there is inaction in relation to the drugs issue.
He read the Commander’s message which said that “people don’t know where to start. There is no strategic and operational intent from the government. That is the first sign of inaction. It's all words, everyone knows the Police needs help, they have their internal strife. Why is still there no Commissioner of Police, is government looking for someone to fit their agenda. We need to set the right priorities. Our first obligation should be the safety and well-being of the people.”
While responding to the issue of the Commissioner of Police, Tikoduadua says this appointment process is governed by constitutional framework.
He says according to Section 129(4) of the Constitution, the Commissioner of Police is appointed by the President, on the advice of the Constitutional Offices Commission, following consultation with the Minister responsible for the Fiji Police Force.
He says measures have been put in place to maintain the operational stability and professionalism and morale of our police officers during this period.
Tikoduadua says measures have been put in place to ensure that the Fiji Police Force continues to function effectively under the current leadership structure.
He says they appreciate the input and collaboration from all stakeholders, including the RFMF, in developing effective strategies to address the drug issue.
Tikoduadua says they ask for patience and understanding as they navigate through the appointment process and work towards enhancing of the security measures.
