The Judicial Services Commission (JSC) held a meeting this afternoon following its recent recommendations to the President regarding matters related to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). The Fiji Law Society (FLS), which represents private legal practitioners in the country, has urged the President to act promptly on the JSC’s recommendations.
The FLS released a statement affirming its commitment to upholding the rule of law and the independence of public institutions, describing Fiji as being at a crucial turning point in its constitutional history. Reports suggest that the President has hesitated to act on the JSC’s recommendations unless particular provisions are made for Acting FICAC Commissioner Lavi Rokoika, a situation that has raised significant concerns within the FLS.
Highlighting the constitutional limits of the President’s powers, the FLS emphasized that the office does not possess the discretion to choose alternatives or delay action based on personal judgments. It asserted that the President is required to adhere strictly to recommendations provided by the JSC regarding the appointment, suspension, or dismissal of the FICAC Commissioner or Acting Commissioner, as outlined by the Constitution and the FICAC Act.
Any deviation from this legal framework, according to the Society, could diminish trust in the integrity of Fiji’s institutions and the democratic process. The FLS has vowed to closely monitor the situation and advocate for adherence to constitutional principles, ensuring that the interests of all Fijians are prioritized.
The emphasis on constitutional adherence and the integrity of public institutions reflects a strong commitment from the FLS to ensure that governance in Fiji aligns with democratic values.