Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs Pio Tikoduadua has indicated that he has significant unfinished business in his role overseeing the Police, despite stepping aside from his responsibilities amid ongoing investigations related to the improper issuance of passports for foreign nationals’ children linked to the Grace Road human rights allegations. In the interim, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has taken on these ministerial duties.
Mr. Tikoduadua expressed hope for a swift appointment of a new Commissioner of Police, emphasizing the urgency of filling this position. He stated, “We have been waiting for a very long time, even though I am no longer the Minister for Police, I know the urgency is there.” He underscored the importance of this appointment for ongoing initiatives, including the renewal of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Fiji and Australia that enhances cooperation in policing.
In his comments, Mr. Tikoduadua highlighted that there is a dedicated consultant ready to mentor the new Commissioner of Police, along with additional personnel from Australia and New Zealand who will assist in raising operational standards within the force. He indicated that their contributions would be crucial for the success of the police’s “Restore Blue” initiative, which he initiated with the assistance of foreign partners.
As he navigates this challenging period, Mr. Tikoduadua remains optimistic about the future of Fiji’s police force and its collaborative ventures. He noted, “I have a lot of unfinished business. Right now, it’s on the discretion of the Prime Minister and until the investigation is completed.”
This situation highlights the importance of stable leadership in the Police Force and the potential for international cooperation to bolster policing standards in Fiji. As investigations proceed, there remains a sense of hope that necessary reforms and a proactive approach can lead to positive developments within the police framework.
In summary, while challenges lie ahead for Minister Tikoduadua and the Police portfolio, the groundwork for future improvements and international collaborations has already been laid, suggesting a potentially bright outlook for Fiji’s law enforcement efforts.
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