The Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiraru has raised concerns over delays in decisions on investigation files arising from a Commission of Inquiry (COI), which are currently before the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
In a statement, the Opposition Leader said recent public comments by the Fiji Police Force confirmed that investigation files linked to the COI had been completed and forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for legal advice.
“The Police have now clearly indicated that the matter has largely moved beyond the investigative stage and rests squarely with the prosecutorial authorities,” he said.
While acknowledging that the independence of the DPP is constitutionally protected, the Opposition Leader stressed that independence should not shield the office from public accountability.
“Independence does not mean immunity from public accountability, particularly where matters of national importance, public confidence in institutions and the rule of law are concerned.”
The Opposition Leader noted that the Commission of Inquiry was publicly funded and involved extensive use of public resources, examining serious allegations including claims of lying under oath and obstruction of justice by senior public office holders, members of the legal profession, members of the judiciary and a Cabinet Minister.
“The public therefore has a legitimate and continuing interest in knowing what has become of those matters.”
According to the Opposition Leader, several months have passed since Police confirmed that the files were sent to the DPP, yet there has been no public indication of outcomes.
“To date, there has been no public indication of prosecutorial outcomes, whether in the form of charges, decisions not to prosecute, or directions for further investigation.”
“This prolonged silence raises unavoidable questions.”
The Opposition Leader questioned why decisions were taking so long and called for reassurance that completed files were being actively prioritised.
“These matters are not routine. They go to the heart of the integrity of key constitutional offices, public confidence in the justice system, and the credibility of accountability mechanisms under the current Government.”
The Opposition Leader urged the DPP to prioritise COI-related investigation files and, where legally permissible, provide updates to the public.
“Transparency, within the bounds of the law, is essential to maintaining trust,” he said, warning that delays risk undermining confidence in both the Commission of Inquiry and the wider justice system.
“The people of Fiji paid for this Commission of Inquiry. They deserve clarity, closure and confidence that justice is being pursued without fear, favour, or delay.”
