Bula
Three stories make the front page of The Fiji Times for Thursday, May 22.
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Synopsis
Holding the police accountable!
Mareta Tagivakatini holds bitter memories of her encounter with police officers in Labasa.
Speaking at a public consultation in the Northern town, she voiced concern about what she described as a lack of urgency and professionalism from police when responding to members of the public! She claimed officers respond quickly to people who hold high positions in society.
She spoke about her experience with the police, pointing out that it was disappointing after she lost her bag in a taxi during heavy rain.
She claims she went to the Labasa market police post where three officers were having dinner. After making her wait for hours, they told her there was no statement form available.
The next day she returned to the station to follow up her case, and was told the officer handling her case was on a day off.
When she requested help from another officer, she claims the officer dismissed her concerns.
Acting Commissioner of Police (Planning) Aporosa Lutunauga said Ms Tagivakatini’s case would be looked into by the Divisional Police Commander and they would provide her feedback.
Now if we are to reflect on this scenario or turn of events, then pretty soon, we may have senior officers pitching in around the country.
What then happens to our other police officers?
This is not the standard we expect from our men and women in blue. This is not what the public deserves. We cannot expect the Police Commissioner or divisional commanders to personally investigate every basic failure of duty. That’s what officers on the ground are trained and paid to do. If they fall short, there must be consequences!
This must be for the sake of justice and to preserve the integrity of the force.
This job certainly isn’t just about wearing a uniform and sitting around having dinner when reports come in!
What allegedly happened in Labasa is a very poor reflection of the work of our men and women in blue.
This isn’t what we expect! This isn’t what we look up to in our police force!
The credibility of the police force depends on accountability. Every officer who neglects their responsibility chips away at public trust.
In saying that, let us not forget that many officers across the country continue to serve with distinction. They uphold the principles of fairness, diligence, and compassion. They understand the power they wield and the responsibilities that come with it. They are beacons of hope, honouring the legacy of those who served before them.
We realise policing isn’t for the fainted hearted. It demands courage, empathy and integrity. In a time where lawlessness threatens peace, the people must be able to lean on a force that is dependable, proactive, and grounded in the rule of law.
We deserve to feel safe and heard! Our force must reflect that expectation, not only in words but in daily actions.
We say real change begins with accountability, and accountability begins with every officer on the ground doing what they swore to do: serve and protect!
