Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu has called on police officers and citizens alike to celebrate the festival of lights with responsibility, reflection, and renewed commitment to righteousness.
“As we come together to celebrate one of the most cherished festivals of our country, I extend my heartfelt wishes to each one of you and your families for a very happy, safe, and prosperous Diwali,” Commissioner Tudravu said in his 2025 Diwali message.
He said Diwali’s message of the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness holds special meaning for members of the police force.
“Diwali, the festival of lights, holds a deep cultural and spiritual meaning for all of us. It signifies the triumph of light over darkness, of good over evil, and the victory of truth and righteousness,” he said.
“This powerful story of Lord Rama carries timeless lessons that continue to resonate with police officers.”
Mr Tudravu said the journey of Lord Rama exemplifies qualities that lie at the heart of policing.
“Lord Rama’s journey reflects duty in adversity, discipline in chaos, and compassion in strength. As members of the police force, these very qualities are at the heart of our service to society,” he said.
He reminded officers of their daily responsibility to uphold justice and protect the innocent.
“Every day, we are entrusted with upholding the values that Diwali celebrates — justice, integrity, and the protection of the innocent,” he said.
“Just as Lord Rama stood for righteousness in the face of evil, we too are called to stand firm against crime, corruption, injustice, and fear.”
Commissioner Tudravu said the Fiji Police Force remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens during the festive period.
“Whether we’re patrolling our streets, investigating crimes, managing large public gatherings, or handling sensitive cases, we are constantly working to ensure that law and order prevail, that good triumphs over wrong, and that the public feels safe,” he said.
He said Diwali provides an opportunity for the force to renew its internal and external commitments.
“This Diwali, we vow to be a better force by renewing our commitment to uphold the law without fear or favor, treat every citizen with respect and dignity, embrace transparency and accountability, and strengthen our internal unity and support for each other.”
Mr Tudravu also appealed to the public to celebrate responsibly.
“I take this opportunity to appeal to the public to celebrate Diwali safely and responsibly.”
“While we will continue to enforce the law strictly, we will also educate and engage with our communities, encouraging them to be responsible citizens.”
He concluded his message by linking the spirit of Diwali to the values of service and discipline that define the police force.
“Diwali is not just a festival of lights — it is a festival of duty, discipline, and devotion, all of which define the police force,” he said.
“Let the story of Lord Rama remind us that no matter how great the darkness, light will always prevail if we remain righteous, courageous, and committed to the truth.”
