Several former senior police officers, including some who are still serving, have expressed their intention to apply for the position of police commissioner. Among the candidates are Rusiate Tudravu, the former Acting Police Commissioner; Abdul Khan, the former Police Chief of Operations; and Sakeo Ganivatu, who holds the position of Assistant Commissioner of Police for Internal Affairs and Professional Standards.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who also chairs the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC), announced that the application period would conclude on September 30. “I cannot release any information yet; applications are open, and we encourage interested candidates to apply,” Mr. Rabuka stated.
Other potential candidates for the role include former police officers Luke Navela and Unaisi Vuniwaqa, the Assistant Secretary-General for Safety and Security, along with the Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew. Khan mentioned that he has not yet submitted his application but is considering it. Tudravu also stated, “I have not applied yet. I am currently in the village and will decide because the closing date is September 30.” He had previously indicated his intention to apply.
Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua has emphasized that appointing a new police commissioner should be a priority, urging the COC to expedite the process. He noted that the delay in appointment is largely due to the importance of the role in the context of the national drug crisis. Tikoduadua expressed a preference for a seasoned local candidate with the right qualifications instead of an outsider.
According to the COC Secretary, Ropate Green, the selected candidate must be aware of the public perception of the police’s role. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that the police are recognized as an accountable, transparent, and non-corrupt organization. The deadline for applications is set for 4 PM on the final day of the month.