There is an urgent requirement to revise the RFMF Act of 1949 and the Police Act of 1965. This was one of the 24 recommendations included in the National Security and Defence Review (NSDR), which was introduced in Suva on Tuesday.
Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua reassured the public that the Coalition Government would consider the recommendations and ensure they do not simply “gather dust on the shelf.” “We already have a draft that is under consultation, but we still have significant work to do regarding the Police Act,” Mr. Tikoduadua stated.
He noted that there had been an earlier version of the Police Act introduced years ago, which faced opposition due to serious concerns and a lack of consultation. “Inclusivity is key here. These changes are not miraculous or instantaneous. We need to collaborate to ensure they are relevant for our future,” he explained.
Mr. Tikoduadua indicated that their efforts would extend beyond the next two years and could continue regardless of his position in the future. He emphasized that the report’s findings were candid, stating them “in black and white.”
“It indicates to government officials that public trust is lacking. What are you going to do about it?” he questioned. “To implement the approximately 20 recommendations, we require resources and political will, which the Coalition Government possesses. We are committed to leading these efforts.”
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