Police Chief should appoint own acting successor - ACP Soko

The Commissioner of Police should have the sole authority to appoint an acting successor during periods of absence or temporary incapacity. 

This proposal was submitted by the Assistant Commissioner of Police Planning, Research and Doctrine Viliame Soko to the Constitution Review Commission, saying the current framework treats acting appointments as placeholders, limiting their ability to make decisive legal and operational decisions.

ACP Soko proposed that the Constitution be amended to explicitly grant the Commissioner exclusive power to designate, in writing, a Deputy Commissioner or Assistant Commissioner to fully exercise the functions of the office.

ACP Soko says this would ensure continuity in leadership, allowing the acting Commissioner to carry out all statutory duties, powers and responsibilities without legal uncertainty.

He stresses that the power of selection should remain an internal command function, free from external influence, to safeguard the independence of the police force.

Insert: ACP Soko - police requires a seamless transition April 22

The submission argues that such reform would strengthen institutional integrity, ensure seamless leadership transitions, and eliminate the risk of legal challenges over decisions made by acting Commissioners.

Soko adds that granting full authority to acting appointees would improve legal efficiency, particularly in matters such as warrants and high-level investigations, where delays or ambiguity could undermine operations.

He notes that the provision will apply only to temporary absences, with existing constitutional processes remaining in place for permanent vacancies.

ACP Soko emphasised that the proposal is grounded in the principle of police independence, arguing that the force must operate free from political influence while remaining accountable to the law and the judiciary.

He says strengthening constitutional clarity around leadership and delegation will help ensure the Fiji Police Force remains a professional, impartial and trusted institution.

ACP Soko adds that the submission reflects a broader call to modernise the country’s legal framework and reinforce the rule of law in the face of evolving national challenges.