The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) has called for strict adherence to the rule of law and greater protection for vulnerable families in the wake of developments surrounding the Vakarisi investigation.
In a press statement, Sepesa Rasili, National President, FCOSS emphasised the importance of safeguarding children and supporting grieving families.
“The loss of any life is a tragedy that ripples through a community,” he said.
FCOSS urged the family of the late Jone Vakarisi, particularly children affected, to seek professional counselling, recommending support services such as Empower Pacific and the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre.
“Child safeguarding is not optional. In the pursuit of a story, the psychological well-being of the innocent must never be collateral damage.”
The council also stressed that all state institutions, including the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and the Fiji Police Force, must operate within the law.
“FCOSS maintains that all state institutions… must operate strictly within the rule of law,” he said.
While acknowledging that the case is being treated as a murder investigation, FCOSS warned against overreach.
“As a State of Emergency has not been declared, the full protection of fundamental rights remains in force. We expect due process to be the only path forward.”
The council also issued a broader call for peace and reflection, warning against repeating past mistakes.
“History is a stern teacher,”
“We remember with heavy hearts that past attempts to bypass the law… led only to bloodshed and national trauma.”
FCOSS urged community leaders to reflect on Fiji’s history and promote unity.
“Tell the stories of 1987, 2000, and 2006. Use our history not to incite, but to deter.”
The statement concluded by calling for collective responsibility in building a peaceful and just society.
“Our collective goal is to correct the mistakes of the past so that our children inherit a Fiji that is secure, peaceful, and anchored in justice.”
