Accept responsibility for ‘bad fruits’

FijiFirst wants to take credit for the good and sweet fruits they sowed, they must accept responsibilities for the “bad, rotten, sour, and poisonous fruits” borne out of their term in government.

That was the advice from Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua rendered to members of the Opposition in relation to the crime situation in Fiji.

Mr Tikoduadua said he held himself accountable for the current law and order situation in the country, much of which was inherited from decisions made in the past.

He referred to a statement made by Opposition Whip Alvick Maharaj, who spoke about the Government “sowing the seeds” that FijiFirst had planted.

Mr Tikoduadua said the bad, rotten, sour and poisonous fruits that Government dealt with today, included those that brought about issues such as drugs, police brutality, unprofessionalism and inefficient administrative process.

“I accept it, all of these, I have to deal with (it), and it will not change overnight,” Mr Tikoduadua said.

“But I assure this house it will change. It is going to change.”

Speaking about the Fiji Police Force, Mr Tikoduadua said the “Restore Blue Concept” was an innovative approach aimed at embedding human rights at the heart of Fiji’s policing efforts.

“It’s about ensuring that every action taken by our police officers aligns with international human rights standards, ensuring that the rights and dignity of every individual and community are respected and protected.

“The essence of human rights-based policing is to forge a positive, trust-based relationship between the police and the communities they serve.

“It’s about moving away from any practices that may have previously undermined public confidence in the police, such as excessive use of force or human rights violations.

“These actions not only damage the professional image of our police force but also hinder their ability to effectively serve and protect our communities.”