Prime Minister and Chairperson of the Constitutional Offices Commission, Sitiveni Rabuka, has announced that 29 candidates have applied for the position of Commissioner of Police, which has recently become vacant. Mr. Rabuka shared this information during the Tailevu Provincial Council meeting held at Vuci Village, Tokatoka.
The vacancy arose following the resignation of former Commissioner of Police, Sitiveni Qiliho, in early August after he was convicted on charges of abuse of office and sentenced to two years in prison. Mr. Rabuka confirmed that the Constitutional Offices Commission will convene soon to review the 29 applications received.
Currently, the role of acting Commissioner of Police is occupied by Juki Fong Chew. While Mr. Chew has not disclosed whether he intends to apply for the permanent position, former Deputy Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has confirmed his application and stated his respect for the Commission’s decision.
Additionally, retired Deputy Commissioner Itendra Nair and former senior officer Unaisi Vuniwaqa have also expressed interest in the position. As of October 11, Mr. Rabuka indicated that the meeting to discuss the applicants was delayed due to Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu being out of the country. Mr. Seruiratu departed on October 10 to attend the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, and will be abroad for ten days, accompanying the Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.
The 29 candidates will now await the outcome of the Constitutional Offices Commission’s deliberations. The members of the Commission include Mr. Rabuka, Government representative Jon Apted, Cema Bolabola, Mr. Seruiratu, Opposition representative Tupou Draunidalo, and Attorney-General Graham Leung.