The Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) is set to convene on Monday, marking a critical step in the government’s effort to fill significant vacancies following the recent presidential election. Opposition leader Inia Seruiratu highlighted that with the election of a new President, the focus now shifts to recommending individuals for vital positions guided by the mandate of the COC.
The COC plays an essential advisory role to the President regarding appointments, which include key positions such as:
– Chair and members of the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission
– Chair and members of the Electoral Commission
– Supervisor of Elections
– Parliament Secretary General
– Public Service Commission Chair and members
– Police Commissioner
– Fiji Correction Services Commissioner
– Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander
– Auditor General
– Reserve Bank Governor
Mr. Seruiratu expressed anticipation for the upcoming meeting of the COC, where appointments requiring the endorsement of new President Ratu Naiqama will be discussed.
One critical vacancy that remains is the position of Commissioner of Police, an area that Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua has emphasized as crucial. While Acting Commissioner Juki Fong Chew has been commended by Prime Minister and COC chairman Sitiveni Rabuka for his performance, there is a consensus on the urgent need to appoint a new, substantive Commissioner.
Senior Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of adhering to due processes as the government moves forward in these appointments, underscoring that the government is aware of its responsibilities.
This push to fill key positions reflects a positive and proactive step towards strengthening governance and ensuring that essential roles within the country’s institutions are occupied by qualified individuals. The upcoming COC meeting is a significant occasion that holds the potential to influence the future stability and functioning of Fiji’s governance infrastructure positively.
Leave a comment