Several former senior police officers, as well as some currently serving, have expressed interest in the position of Police Commissioner. Notable candidates include former Acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu, former Police Chief of Operations Abdul Khan, and Sakeo Ganivatu, Assistant Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Professional Standards.
Prime Minister and chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC), Sitiveni Rabuka, announced that applications for the role will close on September 30. “I cannot disclose anything yet; applications are open, and we encourage interested candidates to apply,” Mr. Rabuka stated.
Other potential applicants include former senior police officers Luke Navela, Unaisi Vuniwaqa, Assistant Secretary-General for Safety and Security, and Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew. Khan mentioned he has not yet applied but is considering it, while Tudravu noted he has yet to submit his application and plans to decide soon due to the approaching deadline.
Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua previously emphasized the urgent need for a substantive Commissioner of Police (COMPOL), citing the significance of the role amid the national drug crisis. He expressed a preference for a local candidate with the necessary experience rather than bringing in someone from outside the country.
According to Ropate Green, Secretary of the COC, the successful applicant should be aware of public perceptions of the police force. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that the police are seen as an accountable, transparent, and corruption-free organization.
Applications will close at 4 PM on September 30.