The Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) is preparing to announce the search for a new Commissioner of Police shortly. Pio Tikoduadua, the Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, indicated that the COC is actively pursuing the appointment of a new head for the Fiji Police Force.
Tikoduadua expressed optimism about the upcoming advertisement for the position, stating, “The COC is going to advertise the position soon. Hopefully, people will apply when the advertisement is released, allowing us to have a substantive commissioner in a timely manner.”
The vacancy was created following the resignation of Sitiveni Qiliho, who stepped down while serving a two-year prison sentence after being suspended on January 27. As a result, the COC is now able to proceed with the search for a new candidate. Currently, the position is being temporarily filled by Acting Commissioner of Police, Juki Fong Chew.
The COC functions as an advisory group to the President of Fiji regarding the appointment of key public officials, including the Commissioner of Police. This commission is made up of six members: the Prime Minister serves as the chairperson, along with the Leader of the Opposition and the Attorney-General. Additionally, two members are appointed by the Prime Minister, and one is chosen by the Leader of the Opposition.