The Fiji Police Force has initiated preliminary investigations into allegations regarding the unauthorized issuance of passports to children connected to members of the Grace Road group. Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew stated that the future direction of the investigation will be determined by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka after further consultations.
This development follows the decision of Home Affairs and Immigration Minister Pio Tikoduadua to resign from his ministerial position, aiming to ensure that the investigation proceeds impartially. Tikoduadua underscored that the issuance of these passports occurred without his knowledge or the approval of senior officials within the Department of Immigration.
Chew indicated that the preliminary investigation will clarify whether the Fiji Police Force or the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) will take the lead in the inquiry.
In navigating this sensitive issue, the actions being taken by the authorities illustrate a commitment to transparency and accountability within the government. This investigation serves as a crucial step toward ensuring that the integrity of the immigration process is upheld, promoting trust within the community.
For those following developments in Fiji, this situation represents an opportunity for systemic improvements in governance and oversight that can ultimately lead to more robust mechanisms in place to prevent such occurrences in the future.
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