Attorney General Graham Leung has acknowledged a critical shortage of senior legal drafters in Fiji, which is significantly delaying necessary law reforms, including the review of the long-outdated Police Act. During his recent statements, Leung highlighted that only two experienced drafters are available to manage the extensive workload, which includes over 40 laws identified for amendment or review.
Leung stressed the importance of modernization, as many current laws are legacies from colonial times, now requiring updates to better reflect contemporary societal needs. “Not every lawyer is trained to be a draftsperson or qualified to be one. The shortage of legal drafters we are facing is not unique to Fiji; it’s a global problem,” he noted, emphasizing that this issue affects many countries.
In light of these challenges, the Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu, expressed confidence that the Attorney General’s office is proactively working to address the situation. He remarked that additional drafters are expected to be brought in to expedite the review process, praising the government for prioritizing this legislative change.
The ongoing shortage presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The situation reflects a pressing need for resource allocation, as independent MP Faiyaz Koya has also urged the government to provide increased funding and support to enhance the capabilities of the Attorney General’s office. This investment could ultimately align Fiji’s legal framework with international standards, fostering more effective governance.
While the immediate hurdles may seem daunting, this could also pave the way for significant improvements within Fiji’s legal system, empowering it to evolve and better serve its citizens. Strategic investments in legal expertise not only present a path toward more robust governance but also inspire hopes for a future where legal frameworks can adapt to meet the diverse needs of Fijian society.
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