The Home Affairs Ministry is investigating how a child belonging to a member of the Grace Road Church managed to obtain a passport just before a potential inquiry into allegations of human rights abuses against the child’s mother. Acting Home Affairs Minister Filimoni Vosarogo has confirmed that the Fiji Police Force’s Criminal Investigations Department (CID) will be conducting this inquiry, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the Immigration Department.
Minister Vosarogo highlighted that the key issue to be examined is whether the child was indeed entitled to a Fijian passport. He raised concerns about the timing of the passport acquisition, particularly as it occurred just before a planned flight out of the country, which may have been an attempt to evade investigations related to the mother’s situation.
He noted that while there are legal provisions allowing children born in Fiji to be recognized as citizens, there are also exceptions that warrant further review. To ensure a fair investigation, the Director of Immigration, Amelia Kamoisavai, along with the Manager of Passports, have been removed from their positions temporarily.
The Director of CID has been instructed through the Commissioner of Police to investigate potential breaches in the standard operating procedures regarding the passport’s issuance. Early investigations are already underway, with CID personnel collecting statements to clarify the events surrounding this matter.
The Acting Commissioner of Police, Juki Fong Chew, confirmed that CID is actively pursuing the case, which began based on a report from the child’s mother addressing concerns about the passport issuance process. The investigation is expected to conclude by the end of next week, with findings and recommendations to be submitted to the Minister for Home Affairs, Mason Smith.
This thorough investigation reflects a commitment to transparency and accountability within the immigration system, highlighting the importance of due process in sensitive cases. The efforts taken to address these concerns indicate a proactive approach to uphold justice, which is hopeful for both the individuals involved and the broader community.
Overall, the steps being taken underscore the significance of ensuring that each case is handled with the utmost integrity, which bodes well for the trust between the citizens and their government.
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