The Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, has expressed significant concern regarding the recent detention of Charlie Charters, raising questions about the legality of the actions taken and warning of potential threats to citizens’ rights. In a statement, Seruiratu emphasized that the law clearly delineates authority concerning the stopping of citizens at the border or their detention.
He pointed out that only the police, immigration authorities acting on a lawful police request, or a court hold the power to detain an individual, emphasizing that the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) lacks such authority and cannot legally obstruct travel, detain individuals, or manage transport.
The circumstances surrounding Charters’ detention have left the public unsettled, according to Seruiratu. He underscored that a citizen was detained and moved without a clear explanation, prompting questions about the transparency and legality of the actions taken. “When the law is this clear and the conduct is this unclear, the people begin to wonder what is being hidden from them,” he remarked.
Seruiratu noted an alarming silence from key institutions regarding their roles and authority in this situation. He criticized the police for not clarifying their involvement, FICAC for failing to define its powers, and immigration for not disclosing who gave the orders. He suggested that such silence from institutions that are designed to serve the public may foster the perception that there is an attempt to manipulate the narrative instead of upholding the law.
He cautioned that this lack of transparency can erode public trust quietly, stating, “Trust does not collapse loudly. It collapses quietly, when those in power believe the people will not notice. But the people always notice.” Seruiratu has called on the government to prioritize citizen transparency by clarifying the authorizations behind the detention, the parties involved in carrying it out, and whether legal processes were adhered to, warning that neglecting to do so could undermine public confidence in the administration.
In an era where accountability and transparency are paramount, Seruiratu’s remarks resonate with a deep-seated need for trust between the government and the populace, underscoring the importance of upholding legal standards and fostering confidence in civic institutions.
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