Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has voiced his disapproval regarding the recent statements made by Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew, which implied that some members of the police force might be corrupt. During a media event yesterday, the Prime Minister conveyed his concerns, emphasizing that such comments could harm the morale of police officers.
Mr. Rabuka pointed out that if Commissioner Juki Fong possesses evidence of corruption within the police ranks, those individuals should be investigated and held accountable rather than making sweeping generalizations. He stated, “No point just casting out a blanket, a big net like that. It demoralises the whole force,” highlighting the detrimental effect of such accusations on the police as a whole.
Moreover, Mr. Rabuka expressed that the remarks made by Commissioner Chew not only disrupt the integrity of the police force but also convey a negative message to both law enforcement officers and the public. The Prime Minister assured that a new police commissioner, Rusiate Tudravu, will be stepping into the role on February 3, 2025, and will likely address these issues.
This confrontation illustrates the challenges faced in maintaining a balance between accountability and preserving the reputation of law enforcement agencies. While it is crucial to address any wrongdoing, it is equally important to ensure that genuine officers are not unfairly tarnished in the process.
In a hopeful outlook, the upcoming appointment of Rusiate Tudravu could lead to positive changes within the police department, fostering a culture of integrity and trust. With strong leadership, there is potential for renewing community confidence in law enforcement.
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