Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu has raised concerns in Parliament over the killing of Police Constable Peniasi Racagi, warning that the incident reflects a worrying level of boldness among criminal elements in society.
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the manner with which the late Police Constable Peniasi Racagi was murdered demonstrated an unprecedented level of boldness by criminal elements within our communities,” he said.
Seruiratu noted that during his upbringing, the uniform worn by police and other disciplined forces symbolised authority and respect.
“Growing up, the police uniform and those worn by other disciplined forces was an emblem of authority. The alleged attack of the late Police Constable in uniform and while in active duty displayed arrogance and a level of disrespect for the law and authority that should not be tolerated,” he said.
He warned that the incident raises concerns about the direction society could be heading.
“We can only hope that this is not an indication of what our future holds,” Seruiratu said.
However, the Opposition leader said the solution does not lie solely in expanding security forces.
“The answer is not in arming our security forces, nor is it in increasing their numbers. The answer may lie in reshaping and rebuilding our communities to value respect and the rule of law, beginning with our school systems and our social groupings,” he said.
Seruiratu also reaffirmed the role of the Opposition in holding the Government accountable on issues affecting the country.
“This is not about political mileage nor is it about point scoring. We will raise issues and ask questions that need to be asked,” Seruiratu said.
He added that the Opposition should be provided with special briefings on key national matters and reiterated his call for the establishment of a Parliamentary Select Committee to monitor the Government’s performance on critical issues raised in the President’s Address.
