Police interrupted a march organized by the NGO Coalition on Human Rights in Suva, Fiji, yesterday, citing security concerns. Fiji Police Force ACP Operations Livai Driu stated that the decision was made based on these security reasons. This response followed a statement from the coalition criticizing the police and the government for failing to grant a permit for the march intended to show solidarity with Palestine.
The coalition expressed that the use of delaying tactics and routine phone inquiries felt reminiscent of a dictatorial regime. They emphasized, “It is shameful that the Fiji Coalition Government, which has promoted itself as a champion of human rights and peace on international and regional stages, continues to restrict the rights of its citizens by denying permit requests aimed at protesting the genocide in Gaza.” The coalition also reminded the Prime Minister that true peace must encompass not only the region but also places like Gaza, West Papua, and Kanaky (New Caledonia).