Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who also chairs the Constitutional Offices Commission, has announced that 29 individuals have applied for the vacant position of Commissioner of Police. He made this statement during the Tailevu Provincial Council meeting held at Vuci Village, Tokatoka.
The recruitment process for the position began following the resignation of former Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho in early August, after he was convicted on abuse of office charges that resulted in a two-year prison sentence.
Rabuka confirmed that the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) will convene soon to review the 29 applications. Currently, the acting Commissioner of Police role is filled by Juki Fong Chew. While Chew has not disclosed his interest in the permanent position, former Deputy Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has confirmed his application and expressed his respect for the COC’s decision.
Interested candidates also include retired Deputy Commissioner Itendra Nair and former senior officer Unaisi Vuniwaqa.
On October 11, Rabuka noted that the delay in the COC’s meeting was due to Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu being out of the country. Seruiratu departed on October 10 to attend the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, and is expected to be away for ten days, having traveled with the Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.
The applicants will now await the COC’s decision-making process. The members of the COC include Rabuka, government representative Jon Apted, Cema Bolabola, Seruiratu, opposition representative Tupou Draunidalo, and Attorney-General Graham Leung.