I hold myself accountable for the current law and order situation in Fiji, much of which was been inherited from decisions made in the past.
That is the message of Home Affairs Minister, Pio Tikoduadua while responding to the President’s speech in parliament.
Tikoduadua says if the FijiFirst wants to take credit for the good seeds, they must accept responsibilities for the bad seeds as well.
He says the fruits of these seeds are what we are contending with today — Drugs, Police Brutality, Unprofessionalism and inefficient administrative processes.
Tikoduadua says he has to deal with all these issues and it will not change overnight, but, he assures parliament it will change.
He adds that the challenges we face today, from transnational crime and drug trafficking to the threats posed by climate change and natural disasters, demand a police force that is not only robust but also adaptable and equipped with contemporary capabilities.
Tikoduadua says the security landscape has evolved dramatically, and so must our response to these challenges.
He says it is their duty, as stewards of this nation, to look beyond the vestiges of the past and forge a path towards a future where our security apparatus is capable, resilient, and responsive to the needs of our time. Tikoduadua highlighted a crucial initiative within our Fiji Police Force, known as the "Restore Blue Concept".
He says this innovative approach is aimed at embedding human rights at the heart of our policing efforts.
Tikoduadua says it's about ensuring that every action taken by our police officers aligns with international human rights standards, ensuring that the rights and dignity of every individual and community are respected and protected.
The Minister says we must empower our communities to be the first line of defence against these threats.
Tikoduadua says community policing, public awareness campaigns, and engaging with civil society organizations are pivotal in this regard.
They aim to not only disrupt the supply chains of drugs and criminal networks but also to address the demand side by providing support, education, and rehabilitation services to those affected.
The Minister also says in the last 15 months or so, President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere has truly lived up to his constitutional mandate to be the symbol of national unity.
Tikoduadua says even when things were tough, the President didn't waver.
He says Ratu Wiliame showed true leadership by accepting the election results, showing us all how much he values democracy and the choice of the Fijian people.
Tikoduadua says it's not easy to stand strong when there are so many voices and pressure coming from different directions but our President did just that. He says by welcoming the election results, the President didn't just follow the rules and the constitution; he showed us what it means to truly respect and trust the process and the decision of our nation.
He also extended his appreciation to the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, the Fiji Police Force, and the Department of Immigration for their dedication and service to our country.
Tikoduadua says their commitment to maintaining peace, ensuring security, and upholding the law is the bedrock upon which the safety and well-being of our citizens rest.
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