The Constitutional Office Commission has approved the formation of an independent selection panel tasked with evaluating and shortlisting candidates for the key position of Commissioner of Police. According to a statement from the Commission’s Chairperson, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, the Commission will review the panel’s assessment report prior to recommending an appointment to the President.
Prime Minister Rabuka noted that the Commission received a total of 30 applications for the Commissioner of Police role, which included four female candidates, reflecting a diverse pool of applicants.
Additionally, Rabuka mentioned that the Commission is actively considering candidates for the position of Chairperson of the Electoral Commission. This follows the resignation of Barbara Malimali. In line with constitutional guidelines, particularly Section 75(6), the new Chairperson must be a sitting judge or someone qualified for such a position.
The Prime Minister also announced that the Commission has endorsed a recommendation from an independent committee concerning the salaries and allowances for individuals appointed to constitutional offices, in accordance with Section 136 of the 2013 Constitution.
This development signifies a commitment to transparency and structured processes in the appointment of key positions within governmental offices, which could ultimately enhance the integrity of these roles. The participation of women among the applicants for the police commissioner role is particularly encouraging, signaling progress towards greater gender representation in leadership positions.
Leave a comment