Rusiate Tudravu Says Fiji Police Are Ready to Secure the Election

Fiji’s police chief says the force is prepared to protect both a general election and a referendum, without bringing in additional officers. Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu said security plans have already been drawn up and discussed with senior police leaders. Tudravu said Assistant Commissioner of Police for Operations Kasiano Vusonilawe had briefed him and other senior officers on preparations for the two events. He added that contingency measures were in place and that other agencies could provide support if required. Asked about possible assistance from the military, he said it was available to support the police. The commissioner said preparations would cover either arrangement: the election and referendum could be held on the same day or on separate dates. He also encouraged people to take part in the vote, saying it is their opportunity to choose a government every four or five years. According to Tudravu, the security situation is safe and the environment is suitable for people to vote. Police will also be managing festive-season operations in the months ahead. Meanwhile, the force and the Fijian Elections Office have formalised their cooperation through a memorandum of understanding signed by Tudravu and Supervisor of Elections Ana Mataiciwa on Wednesday. The agreement sets out how the two organisations will share information, communicate and provide operational support. It also requires sensitive information to be kept confidential. Tudravu said police would work closely with the Elections Office to help keep the process safe, orderly and efficient, and to protect its integrity and credibility.