Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who also chairs the Constitutional Offices Commission, has announced that 29 individuals have submitted applications for the vacant position of Commissioner of Police.
Rabuka made this announcement during a meeting of the Tailevu Provincial Council in Vuci Village, Tokatoka. The position became available following the resignation of former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho in early August, after he was convicted of abuse of office and sentenced to two years in prison.
Rabuka indicated that the Commission will convene soon to review the applications. The acting Commissioner of Police role is currently filled by Juki Fong Chew. While Chew has not publicly declared his interest in the position, former Deputy Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has confirmed he applied and will abide by the Commission’s decision.
Additionally, retired Deputy Commissioner Itendra Nair and former senior officer Unaisi Vuniwaqa have expressed interest in the role. As of October 11, Rabuka explained that the Commission’s meeting has been delayed due to Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu being out of the country for the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland. Seruiratu left on October 10 and is expected to be away for 10 days.
The applicants are now awaiting the Constitutional Offices Commission’s review process. Members of the Commission include Rabuka, government representative Jon Apted, Cema Bolabola, Seruiratu, opposition representative Tupou Draunidalo, and Attorney-General Graham Leung.