A thorough overhaul of the Police Act of 1965 is currently in progress in Fiji, aimed at modernizing the policing laws to align them with current realities. The Ministry of Policing, in partnership with the Fiji Police Force and the Office of the Solicitor-General, is spearheading this initiative to redefine police powers and ensure that law enforcement adheres to human rights and constitutional standards.
This review will not only update the police practices in light of technological advancements but also seeks to establish a national framework for community policing. A significant part of this initiative is to bolster legal protections for whistleblowers, thereby promoting transparency and integrity within law enforcement.
The review process commenced in May and has already included high-level consultations with key stakeholders, such as the Minister for Policing and the Commissioner of Police. Notably, consultations have expanded to include organizations like the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission and various NGOs focusing on women’s rights and social services.
To further enhance the review process, a legal consultant has been engaged, and an online public submission portal will be launched soon to encourage Fijians to share their views on the proposed reforms. According to the Ministry, a Consultation Paper and a draft Police Bill are expected to be released in early August, followed by nationwide public consultations to ensure community input is incorporated.
This reform effort mirrors a broader commitment seen in previous initiatives regarding the Fiji Police Force, which include a review of the Use of Force Policy aimed at aligning practices with international human rights standards. The importance of public participation in shaping modern law enforcement strategies is emphasized as a crucial step toward fostering a professional and responsive policing framework that meets the needs of all communities.
This ongoing commitment to reform is a hopeful development for the future of policing in Fiji. By actively engaging the public and various stakeholders, these initiatives aim to restore trust in law enforcement while addressing contemporary challenges in a constructive manner. The direction towards fostering collaboration and transparency between the police and communities is essential for creating a safer environment for all citizens.
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