Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs Pio Tikoduadua has expressed his commitment to addressing unfinished matters within the Police portfolio as he awaits the completion of ongoing investigations linked to the improper issuance of passports to foreign nationals’ children associated with the Grace Road human rights allegations. In light of these developments, Minister Tikoduadua has temporarily stepped down from his roles in Immigration and Police, with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stepping in to manage these essential portfolios.
Speaking on the urgency of appointing a new Commissioner of Police, Tikoduadua emphasized the importance of this role for the Fiji Police Force’s programs and initiatives. He highlighted that Fiji has strengthened its collaboration with Australia under the Vuvale Partnership, not only through the Pacific policing initiative but also through bilateral agreements. The appointment of the new Commissioner, aligned with an amended Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), is crucial for advancing joint police initiatives and ensuring the effectiveness of the Fiji Police Force.
Additionally, Tikoduadua mentioned that there is a dedicated consultant prepared to mentor the new commissioner, alongside a team of four others—three from Australia and one from New Zealand—who are poised to join the Force to elevate its standards. He noted the ongoing ‘Restore Blue’ initiative aimed at improving police operations, which has already been handed over to the Prime Minister and the Minister for Police for full implementation.
Tikoduadua remains hopeful and prepared for a reshuffle once the investigations conclude, signaling his readiness to continue his work in enhancing the police force’s performance and effectiveness.
This situation, while challenging, offers an opportunity for meaningful reform and collaboration within the Fiji Police Force, paving the way for improved standards and international partnerships that can significantly benefit law enforcement efforts.
In summary, Minister Tikoduadua is currently awaiting the outcome of investigations related to the issuance of passports, has stepped back from his ministerial roles while highlighting the urgent need for a new Commissioner of Police, and remains optimistic about the future of policing in Fiji through international cooperation.
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