For the first time, Justices of the Peace (JPs) in Fiji are receiving recognition through a significant financial allocation as part of the 2025-2026 Budget. During the recent budget address, Finance Minister Biman Prasad announced a groundbreaking $1,000,000 to provide each practicing JP with a monthly allowance of $100, acknowledging their vital role in serving communities.
Currently, over 700 JPs are actively serving across the nation, with 30 new JPs having recently been sworn in on April 21. Their functions include witnessing legal documents, signing affidavits, and ensuring access to justice, a commitment reinforced by Chief Justice Salesi Temo during the recent induction ceremony.
The new financial support for JPs is expected to enhance their ability to perform these important duties, thus contributing positively to the justice system in Fiji. This step reflects an ongoing effort to improve the legal framework and underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that justice remains accessible to all citizens.
Additionally, the established relationship between the judiciary and community-oriented justice is likely to strengthen public confidence in legal processes, illustrating a hopeful trajectory for the future of justice in Fiji. With initiatives aimed at enhancing transparency and fairness, the government is taking significant steps to cultivate trust within the community and support those who serve in the legal system.
As Fiji moves forward, these investments in the justice system signal a commitment to building a more equitable and accessible legal environment, promising a better future for all its citizens.
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