Opposition Members of Parliament are calling on the Government for clear timelines and assurances regarding the digital readiness of the judiciary as discussions continue on plans for new court facilities throughout Fiji.
Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu emphasized the need for concrete dates regarding the establishment of rural and maritime courthouses, expressing that communities require certainty about the progress of these projects. He pressed officials to clarify whether definitive timelines are available.
In a related inquiry, Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya raised questions about the digitization of court records, particularly asking if files such as probates have transitioned to an electronic platform. Koya sought clarification on whether the digitization process has been fully completed or if efforts are still ongoing across various regions of the country.
Alvick Maharaj, another Opposition MP, also voiced concerns regarding the long-discussed relocation of the Judiciary from its current site near Parliament to Veiuto.
Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga acknowledged that while work is proceeding, final details are still being ironed out. He noted that Fiji is experiencing significant changes in the justice sector, marking historical judicial milestones for the nation since its independence in 1970.
Turaga highlighted recent noteworthy events, including the High Court’s sitting on Rabi Island for the first time in 55 years and the Court of Appeal’s inaugural full bench sitting in Ba. Future court sittings are planned for Labasa and, for the first time, Taveuni, indicating a push to make judicial access more widespread.
The Acting Attorney-General confirmed the development of new facilities in various locations including Dreketi, Tukavesi, Koro, Lakeba, Vanuabalavu, Rotuma, Nacula, and Vunisea, alongside significant constructions planned for Lautoka, Nadi, Nausori, and Savusavu. He underscored that these initiatives represent more than mere infrastructure enhancements; they signify a commitment to providing justice in the communities where people live, thus reinforcing the Government’s dedication to improving access to the legal system across Fiji.
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