Parliament has passed the Fiji Police Bill 2026, paving the way for major reforms to modernise the Fiji Police Force, strengthen investigative capabilities and improve accountability while safeguarding the constitutional rights of citizens.
Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua said the new legislation would repeal and replace the Police Act 1965, which he described as outdated and inadequate to address emerging security challenges, including cybercrime, transnational organised crime, drug trafficking and money laundering.
He highlighted five major areas of reform, including strengthening police professionalism through merit-based recruitment, background screening, drug testing, structured training and continuous professional development.
The legislation also introduces stronger disciplinary and accountability mechanisms, including the establishment of the Fiji Police Force Disciplinary Tribunal to independently review disciplinary decisions.
Under the new framework, members of the public will have avenues to lodge complaints against police officers, while enhanced financial auditing and public reporting requirements will strengthen transparency and parliamentary oversight.
The minister said the legislation reinforces human rights protections by requiring police officers to exercise their powers in accordance with the Constitution and the rule of law. The use of force must be reasonable, necessary and proportionate.
Modern investigative provisions will cover covert surveillance, tracking devices, search warrants, access to digital devices and forensic investigations, with appropriate judicial authorisation and oversight.
