Police Bill introduces new disciplinary tribunal

Fiji is set to introduce significant reforms within its police force with the proposed Fiji Police Bill 2026. A key feature of this legislation is the establishment of an independent Fiji Police Force Disciplinary Tribunal. This tribunal will act as an impartial body to review disciplinary decisions made by the Commissioner of Police, aiming to bolster accountability and fairness.

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the changes are designed to improve accountability, fairness, and public trust within the Fiji Police Force.

Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua, stated that these changes are designed to improve public trust and professionalism within the force. The tribunal is intended to strengthen natural justice and provide a clear appeal pathway for officers and other individuals dissatisfied with disciplinary outcomes. Beyond internal accountability, the bill also emphasizes building safer communities through enhanced partnerships. It seeks to integrate community policing principles into law, fostering cooperation between the police and various community groups, including faith-based organizations, civil society, women, youth, and local leaders.

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the tribunal will strengthen natural justice, improve transparency, and ensure greater professionalism within the force.

The overarching goal of these initiatives is to build trust, improve information sharing, and support a more prevention-focused approach to policing across Fiji. The bill was recently introduced to Parliament and has been referred to the Justice and Human Rights Parliamentary Committee for further scrutiny before its next sitting.

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This is intended to strengthen trust, improve information sharing, and support prevention-based policing across the country.