The urgent need to resolve the delayed appointments to key institutions, including the Mercy Commission and the Fiji Law Reform Commission, has been highlighted by the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence. This issue was detailed in a Consolidated Review Report regarding the operations of the Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) from 2014 to 2022, which was presented to Parliament recently.
The report expresses concern that the ongoing delays in these critical appointments may severely impact the functionality of these bodies. The Mercy Commission, tasked with the timely processing of applications for clemency for convicted individuals and provision of critical advice to the President, has not convened for several years due to the lack of appointed committee members. Similarly, the Fiji Law Reform Commission has also been functioning without a designated chairperson for an extended period.
The commission plays a vital role in researching laws, advising the government on policy matters, and preparing draft legislation for various ministries before it is submitted to Cabinet. The report urges prompt action to appoint a chairperson for the Law Reform Commission to prevent further stagnation.
Additionally, the report identifies shortcomings in the OAG’s reporting, such as missing information concerning liquor licenses and a lack of gender representation among staff members. It recommends that future reports provide detailed gender-disaggregated data and outline the positions held by women.
The committee acknowledged the efforts made towards capacity building, noting that training for professional officers often occurs through participation in various seminars and workshops, both locally and internationally. While recognizing the commendable legislative drafting and legal services provided by the OAG, the committee emphasized the necessity for continuous revisions of laws to align with Fiji’s evolving needs. They also called for improvements in the clarity of report language to facilitate public comprehension.
Finally, the report underscores the pressing need for additional resources to tackle existing staff shortages and the growing demands from government ministries.
This report serves as a critical reminder of the importance of timely appointments and the need for proper resourcing within these pivotal functions of government, highlighting an opportunity for the government to enhance operational efficiency and responsiveness to the public’s needs. Addressing these issues effectively could lead to more effective governance and better service delivery in Fiji.
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