The Home Affairs Ministry of Fiji is initiating an investigation into how a child, connected to a member of the Grace Road Church, was able to obtain a passport just before a potential inquiry into human rights abuse allegations involving the child’s mother. Acting Home Affairs Minister Filimoni Vosarogo stated that this situation raises concerns about the integrity of the Immigration Department.
Mr. Vosarogo emphasized that the main focus of the investigation is to confirm whether the child was entitled to a Fijian passport. The circumstances surrounding the passport’s issuance, which occurred shortly before a planned flight that could have been an attempt to evade scrutiny regarding the mother’s complaints, are particularly alarming.
To ensure a fair investigation, the Director of Immigration, Amelia Kamoisavai, along with the Manager of Passports, has been relieved of her duties, with acting appointments made to maintain operations in the department. The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has been instructed to look into possible breaches of standard operating procedures related to the passport issuance.
The investigations are already underway, with statements being gathered to clarify the situation. The authorities aim to conclude the investigations by the end of the upcoming week, delivering a report with findings and recommendations to the Home Affairs Minister and Secretary the following week.
Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew has confirmed the ongoing investigation based on the mother’s report, which encompasses the passport issuance process.
This situation, although concerning, presents an opportunity for the Fiji government to reinforce the integrity of its immigration system. By addressing these issues promptly, authorities can restore public confidence and ensure that proper protocols are followed in the future, demonstrating a commitment to accountability and transparency in governance.
In summary, as investigations proceed, there is hope that the resolution will lead to improved oversight and protection of human rights within the community.
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