Several former senior police officials, including some who are still serving, have expressed their interest in the position of Police Commissioner. Among those are former Acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu, former Police Chief of Operations Abdul Khan, and Assistant Commissioner of Police Internal Affairs and Professional Standards Sakeo Ganivatu.
Prime Minister and Chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) Sitiveni Rabuka announced that the application period will close on September 30. He stated, “I cannot release anything yet; applications are open, and we invite interested applicants to apply for the position.”
Other notable candidates for the role include former senior police officer Luke Navela, Assistant Secretary-General for Safety and Security Unaisi Vuniwaqa, and Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew. While Mr. Khan mentioned that he has not applied yet but is considering it, Mr. Tudravu noted, “I have not applied yet. I am currently at the village and will see because the closing date is September 30.” Previously, he had expressed his intent to apply for the position.
Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua emphasized that the appointment of a substantive Police Commissioner should be a priority, urging the COC to move urgently on the matter. He explained that the delay in the appointment is due to the significant implications of the role amid the national drug crisis.
Mr. Tikoduadua has also advocated for a local candidate with appropriate experience and qualifications to fill the position, rather than an outsider. In the job advertisement, COC Secretary Ropate Green highlighted the importance of the successful candidate being mindful of the public perception of the police force. He stated that the individual must be committed to establishing the police as an accountable, transparent, and non-corrupt organization.
Applications for the position will close at 4 PM on September 30.