Former Supervisor of Elections and lawyer Mohammed Saneem has publicly condemned what he perceives as the habitual misuse of the 48-hour detention rule by law enforcement agencies in Fiji. His statements come in response to increasing public uproar regarding these practices, which he claims reflect a persistent failure to defend the rights of ordinary citizens.
In a recent LinkedIn post, Saneem pointed out that many individuals are only now recognizing the abuse of the constitutional provision that allows for detention without charge. He emphasized that it is a common occurrence for suspects to be held until the 48-hour mark, often released without any charges being filed against them.
Saneem alleged that the timing of arrests, particularly those made on Friday afternoons, is a strategic move to extend the duration of detention, as interviews are conducted over the weekend. This practice, he argues, contributes to systemic injustices within the legal framework.
He further highlighted concerns regarding the right to legal representation, mentioning that in some cases, the Criminal Investigations Department has only charged individuals to justify their overnight detentions, treating legal counsel as a secondary concern instead of a fundamental right.
Remarkably, Saneem’s comments come amid heightened scrutiny following a high-profile case involving the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). He noted that the public’s strong reactions seemed to emphasize a broader issue in which the rights and well-being of ordinary citizens are routinely overlooked. Saneem remarked, “This shows that no one stands up for the common man,” alluding to the infrequent expressions of support from influential figures unless it involves well-known individuals.
In his concluding remarks, Saneem urged the public to acknowledge and challenge these longstanding practices, advocating for a shift in focus toward the rights of all citizens and not just those in prominent positions. His call for action embodies a hopeful message for reform and greater accountability within the justice system.