Newly appointed Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua, recently embarked on his inaugural visit to the Fiji Police Force headquarters, where he was warmly welcomed by Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police, Sakeo Raikaci. This visit signals Naivalurua’s commitment to tackling the pressing challenges within the police force and rebuilding trust in the communities they serve.

During his first official engagement, Naivalurua emphasized the importance of operational improvements and urged police personnel to demonstrate their effectiveness through tangible actions, stating, “It’s too early to predict outcomes, but I’m eager to collaborate further with you to win back the hearts of the people we serve.” He encouraged officers to rise above criticism and to “prove them wrong by our actions where results are seen,” highlighting a proactive stance toward community engagement.

As a former Commissioner of Police, Naivalurua brings a wealth of experience to his role. He plans to hold comprehensive briefings with police officials in the upcoming weeks to thoroughly understand the ongoing issues facing the force, which are particularly significant following the tenure of former Minister Pio Tikoduadua, who addressed several unresolved investigations and challenges.

A critical initiative under Naivalurua’s leadership will be the “Restore Blue” program, aimed at enhancing police accountability and operational standards with the support of international partners. This program is seen as a hopeful direction for revitalizing the Fiji Police Force, enhancing its effectiveness, and fostering stronger connections with the community.

Naivalurua’s commitment to operational improvements and his collaborative approach present an optimistic outlook for the future of policing in Fiji. With strategic planning and active community involvement, there exists significant potential for meaningful reforms that can restore public trust and enhance safety throughout the nation.

In summary, Minister Naivalurua’s first visit not only marks the beginning of a new era for the Fiji Police Force but also aligns with a broader vision of improvement and accountability, laying the groundwork for a more responsive and effective law enforcement agency dedicated to serving the public. This leadership change brings renewed hope for a safer environment and closer ties with the communities across Fiji.