Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has addressed an important issue regarding the management of illegal immigration in Fiji. During a recent session in Parliament, Rabuka informed that the Department of Immigration currently lacks facilities for detaining illegal immigrants and has no immediate plans to establish dedicated detention centers.
Highlighting a problematic incident, Rabuka noted that an individual detained for immigration non-compliance had been placed alongside convicted criminals. This incident underscores the urgency of the situation, prompting the Prime Minister to express the need for reforms within the Department. He emphasized that the focus should be on preventing illegal immigration rather than only managing those who are already present.
Recent statistics reveal a troubling trend, with the number of illegal immigrants in Fiji having surged to over 8,000, doubling from approximately 4,700 in just the past year since 2023. This rise is garnering significant attention from the government and the Department of Immigration.
In response to these challenges, Rabuka indicated that the government is undertaking a thorough review of the Immigration Act. This review aims to bolster the independence of the Department and address critical aspects, including intelligence gathering, the creation of new immigration pathways, enforcement of penalties, and procedures for removal. The Prime Minister also mentioned that measures are being explored to potentially offer amnesty to certain individuals, allowing those who genuinely qualify to remain in Fiji the chance to do so.
The Office of the Solicitor-General is currently evaluating this potential amnesty, indicating a proactive approach by the government to manage the situation more effectively.
This announcement from Prime Minister Rabuka offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that reforms might lead to a more humane and structured approach to immigration in Fiji. With focused legislative updates and a commitment to addressing the root causes of illegal immigration, there is potential for a positive transformation in how the nation navigates this complex issue.
Summary: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has revealed that Fiji’s Department of Immigration currently has no facilities for detaining illegal immigrants, leading to concerning situations. The number of illegal immigrants has doubled to over 8,000, prompting a comprehensive review of immigration laws aimed at improving the process and potentially offering amnesty to certain individuals. The government’s proactive approach signals a hopeful path towards addressing immigration challenges in Fiji.
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