Newly appointed Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua, made his inaugural visit to the Fiji Police Force headquarters, receiving a warm welcome from Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police, Sakeo Raikaci. This visit marks a significant step in Naivalurua’s commitment to address the challenges within the police force and rebuild trust with the communities they serve.

During his visit, Naivalurua highlighted the necessity for operational improvements and encouraged police personnel to rise above criticisms. He stated, “It’s too early to predict outcomes, but I’m eager to collaborate further with you to win back the hearts of the people we serve,” emphasizing the importance of tangible actions over mere words. He urged the officers to demonstrate their effectiveness, saying, “Let’s prove them wrong by our actions where results are seen.”

Having previously served as the Commissioner of Police, Naivalurua brings extensive experience to his new role. He plans to conduct comprehensive briefings with police officials in the coming weeks to better understand the ongoing challenges facing the force. This leadership transition comes at a crucial time, following the oversight of former Minister Pio Tikoduadua, who dealt with numerous unresolved investigative challenges that impacted police operations.

A cornerstone of Naivalurua’s leadership will be the “Restore Blue” program, aimed at enhancing police accountability and operational standards with support from international partners. This initiative signifies a hopeful direction for revitalizing the Fiji Police Force, aspiring to improve effectiveness and foster stronger public trust.

Naivalurua’s proactive stance and emphasis on community collaboration signal a promising outlook for the future of policing in Fiji. His focus on operational enhancements and strategic planning could lead to meaningful reforms, ultimately restoring faith in law enforcement and improving public safety.

In summary, Minister Naivalurua’s inaugural visit represents a renewed commitment to rejuvenating the Fiji Police Force, fostering collaboration, and enhancing operational effectiveness. His approach paves the way for a brighter and safer future for all citizens in Fiji, enhancing the relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve.