Sitiveni Qiliho, the former police commissioner who is currently incarcerated for abuse of office, is now facing an investigation related to comments he made after the 2022 General Election. The inquiry centers on remarks he made in December 2022 about alleged violence and instability in the aftermath of the elections.
Assistant Police Commissioner for Crime Mesake Waqa confirmed to Fiji Sun that the investigation is focused on allegations stemming from Qiliho’s statements regarding unverified reports of stoning incidents and vandalism. “We confirm that there is an investigation regarding the statement issued alleging the stoning incident and vandalism,” ACP Waqa stated.
On December 21, 2022, only a week after the elections, Qiliho claimed that police had received unconfirmed reports of stoning incidents, although those who reported did not file formal claims. He subsequently directed the Divisional Crime Officer for the North to investigate reports of vandalism in the area.
On December 22, he also announced that the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) would support the police in maintaining order due to an increase in reported threats against minority groups following the election results. In his statement, Qiliho expressed concern over rising racial tensions and noted an agreement for RFMF personnel to assist police operations.
The situation intensified when former Police Chief of Operations Abdul Khan resigned from his role on December 23, citing personal reasons, although sources suggest his resignation was related to disputes over the decision to involve the RFMF in police duties.
Recently, RFMF Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai addressed the delicate situation post-2022 elections during a media interview, acknowledging the tension that could have led to instability within the RFMF. He highlighted their ongoing efforts to engage the RFMF while emphasizing their commitment to preventing further unrest.