Several former senior police officers, including some still on active duty, have expressed interest in the position of the country’s top police chief. Among the candidates are former Acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu, former Police Chief of Operations Abdul Khan, and Sakeo Ganivatu, who serves as the Assistant Commissioner of Police for Internal Affairs and Professional Standards.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who also chairs the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC), announced that the application window will close on September 30. “I cannot release any information at this time; applications are open, and we encourage qualified candidates to apply,” stated Mr. Rabuka.
Additional contenders for the role include former senior police officers Luke Navela, current Assistant Secretary-General for Safety and Security Unaisi Vuniwaqa, and Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew. Mr. Khan mentioned that he has not yet submitted his application but is considering it, while Mr. Tudravu remarked that he has yet to apply as he is currently in the village, noting the approaching deadline.
Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua emphasized that appointing a permanent Commissioner of Police should be a priority and urged the COC to expedite the process. He attributed delays to the significance of the role in light of the national drug crisis, suggesting that the appointment should ideally be filled by a knowledgeable local candidate rather than an outsider.
Ropate Green, Secretary of the COC, highlighted that the successful applicant must understand the public perception of the police force and must be committed to fostering an image of accountability, transparency, and integrity within the organization. Applications will be accepted until the end of the month, with a cut-off time of 4 p.m. on September 30.