AGP Executive Report

Constitution Review: Fiji’s Constitution Review Commission heard calls for tougher constitutional penalties on coup makers, with submissions arguing Fiji must break its “coup culture” and protect governments chosen by voters. Aviation Safety: Government appointed veteran investigator Captain Norman Walding to lead an inquiry into a Robinson R44 helicopter ditching off Wailoaloa, Nadi, after the pilot escaped uninjured. Sugar Supply Crunch: Fiji Sugar Corporation warned sugar stocks could run out by month-end if harvesting and mill starts slip, citing very low cane delivery readiness and urging farmers to get ready as FSC seeks to protect local and export supply. Drug Fight & Police Reform: Former acting assistant police commissioner Unaisi Vuniwaqa pushed for a whole-of-government approach to Fiji’s drug crisis, stressing clear SOPs for any Police-RFMF joint operations and stronger institutions beyond salary rises. Fuel Crisis Planning: Competition and Consumer Commission ex-CEO Joel Abraham said fuel price announcements must be predictable during crises, and urged regulators and government to map essential supply chains and allocation priorities before shortages hit. Court Case Update: Former AG Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and ex-Fiji Airways executives are set to plead on July 10 over alleged unlawful firearms carriage and aviation security offences. Child Protection: Ministers marked World Day against Child Labour and online safety talks, reiterating children belong in school—not workplaces—and pushing stronger protection against online exploitation.

Super Rugby Aupiki: Fiji’s women’s competition shifts to a later mid-year window, giving teams more weeks and training time as top players chase overseas stints. Drug policy and policing: A former senior police official says Fiji’s drug crisis needs a whole-of-government, ministerial-level taskforce and clearer Police-RFMF operating rules—salary rises alone won’t fix it. Child protection online: Policing and Communications Minister Ioane Naivalurua says safer digital spaces for children are a shared responsibility, with agencies coordinating on enforcement and new measures. Parliament and accountability: Parliament grills the Sugar Cane Growers Council over overdue reports, unclear fees and trust-fund issues, while the council says limited funding is hurting outreach to thousands of cane farmers. Economy and debt pressure: The IMF and other analysts warn Fiji’s growth is slowing under debt risks, with calls for urgent economic action and better spending priorities. High Court on anti-corruption: Fiji’s High Court rejects PM Rabuka’s bid to stall the Malimali case, setting up further legal steps. Climate diplomacy: Fiji climate advocates push for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty ahead of COP talks in Bonn. Government travel: PM Rabuka relaxes overseas travel restrictions for ministers on critical work, including pre-COP preparations. Sports: Team Fiji final Commonwealth Games squad confirmed; meanwhile, Drua Women host Western Force in Lautoka and Flying Fijians call up Natave after Sokobale’s injury.

High Court & anti-corruption: Fiji’s High Court has rejected PM Sitiveni Rabuka’s bid to stall the ruling over the illegal sacking of former FICAC chief Barbara Malimali, with Rabuka’s lawyer now moving to the Court of Appeal for a fresh stay. Parliament oversight: The Sugar Cane Growers Council (SCGC) faced tough questioning over overdue accounts and unclear payments, while separate reports say limited funding is restricting farmer outreach. Sugar supply risk: Fiji Sugar Corporation warns crushing could be deferred if cane delivery readiness stays extremely low, even after a $5/tonne increase in delivery payments. Child labour push: Acting Employment Minister Filimoni Vosarogo says more than 200 children have been removed from exploitative work and returned to school, with stronger laws and social protection underway. Elections & referendum readiness: The Electoral Commission says it’s ready for the next general election and a national referendum, as voter registration and awareness continue. Fuel & jobs: Ra leaders urge Government to explore local oil resources to reduce reliance on imported fuel, while business resilience groups stress firms must plan for fuel disruptions now. Tourism & investment: PM Rabuka has relaxed travel restrictions for priority missions, and Fiji’s AHICE tourism conference in Nadi drew a record crowd and new hotel deals.

Fiji Politics & Governance: The Electoral Commission says it will not proactively monitor Government spending before the election unless it receives formal complaints, after former FICAC commissioner Barbara Malimali questioned election-linked roadworks and handouts. Constitution & Justice: Fiji’s UN envoy Filipo Tarakinikini argues the Constitution review must be tied to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, saying removing immunity and TRC work are “complementary,” not alternatives. Online Safety Policy: Communications Minister Ioane Naivalurua says talks are ongoing on banning or restricting pornography websites, with enforcement and possible law changes expected to be discussed. Regional Security & Diplomacy: Pacific states reaffirmed the nuclear-free stance as the Rarotonga Treaty marks 40 years, with Suva hosting a consultative meeting. Defence & Borders: A CRC submission urged expanding the military’s constitutional role to include border protection and maritime surveillance. Fiji Economy & Oversight: Police pay and workforce support remain a flashpoint, with Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum calling for prioritised salary increases to reduce corruption risk. Fiji in the Region: Fiji Airways launched direct flights between Nadi and Australia’s Gold Coast, boosting tourism connectivity. Maritime & Community: A helicopter pilot survived a sea crash off Wailoaloa near Nadi; authorities are investigating.

Constitution & Truth: Fiji’s UN envoy Filipo Tarakinikini says the Constitution Review must be linked to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, warning amendments alone won’t break the cycle of coups driven by communal fears and political grievances. Police pay & integrity: Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum urges prioritising police in salary increases and fully implementing the job evaluation exercise, warning low pay fuels corruption and outside influence. Border security & migration: Immigration leaders in Suva mark 30 years of the PIDC, calling for modern border systems, faster information sharing, and stronger laws as migration and security pressures rise. Military role in law: CRC consultations hear calls to expand the RFMF’s constitutional duties to include border protection and maritime surveillance. Budget strain: Former Finance Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum says operating expenditure has surged to $3.9b, crowding out roads, hospitals and jobs. Women in Parliament: People’s Alliance deputy leader Manoa Kamikamica pushes for constitutional protections and women’s quota models ahead of an expected February election. Anti-corruption media: UNODC and PINA launch J-PACT in Suva with NZ support to train Pacific journalists on corruption and illicit finance. Drugs at sea: Navy and Police investigate whether multiple Lau drug packages came from one drop or several, with drift analysis and expanded patrols. Eco-mortuaries: Government moves to install 10 eco-mortuaries after disturbing social media claims about bodies stored on Kadavu.

Tourism & Housing: Fiji says it needs about 4,000 new hotel rooms to hit 1.25m visitors and $4b tourism earnings by 2027, pointing to airport upgrades and a growing pipeline of tourism projects as the Tourism Bill 2026 aims to tighten investment rules. Public Health Accountability: Government will install 10 eco-mortuaries after distressing claims from Kadavu about bodies allegedly stored in ice-filled eskies, with tenders approved but final sign-offs still pending. Anti-Corruption & Police Oversight: A top Fiji detective, Serupepeli Neiko, has been directed to go on leave while prosecutors review alleged corruption-related abuse of office; police also reject claims of systemic corruption. Economy vs Election Spending: At the State of the Economy Dialogue, leaders clashed over fiscal management, debt and cost-of-living pressures, with calls to scrutinise pre-election spending for possible vote-buying. Constitution & Elections: Constitution Review consultations show strong support for electoral changes, including a return to a multi-constituency model and reintroducing a Senate. Maritime Security: QUAD partners unveiled new maritime surveillance and critical minerals initiatives, expanding port and information-sharing efforts across the South Pacific. Marine Protection: Fiji targets up to 15% marine protected areas by end of 2026 as part of a 30% goal by 2030.

Police & Accountability: Fiji’s top detective Serupepeli Neiko has been directed to go on leave as ODPP reviews alleged corruption abuse of office, while police also reject claims of systemic corruption in Parliament. Constitution Review: CRC hearings in Lautoka heard calls for language tests for foreign workers and for removing the 2013 Immunity Clause, plus broader push to reflect people’s wishes and strengthen accountability. Economy & Budget Pressure: At the State of the Fijian Economy Dialogue, stakeholders warned Fiji is “vulnerable” with debt around $11.4b, growth forecasts cut to about 1.5%, and inflation rising; debate also flared over VAT cuts, Cabinet size, and whether spending is crowding out jobs and services. Cost of Living & Social Support: Panelists urged jobs-led growth, more women into work, WAF reform, and faster skilled immigration, alongside calls to redirect funding from commissions toward targeted help. Human Rights & Security: NGOCHR wants suspension of joint Police-RFMF operations pending public, independent investigations into deaths in custody and alleged torture. Health Infrastructure: Government plans 10 eco-mortuaries after claims of a baby’s body kept on ice in an esky on Kadavu. Ocean Governance: Fiji targets up to 15% marine protection by end of 2026, with stronger community-led stewardship. Regional Migration: Fiji’s immigration minister warned Pacific nations face rising trafficking, smuggling, fraudulent documents and cybercrime, calling for faster information-sharing and modernised laws.

Sports Governance: Fiji Sports Council CEO Gilbert Vakalalabure’s FSC probe report—alleging misuse of more than $1m—has been handed to legal advisers and is expected to be released to Fiji Police for further action, with CID also running a separate investigation. Macroeconomy: The IMF warns Fiji growth is slowing to 2.4% (from 3.2% in 2025) as inflation rises and debt risks mount, while the RBF cuts its 2026 GDP forecast to 1.5% and flags fuel and oil shocks. Public Accountability: Fiscal Review Committee chair Richard Naidu says Government lacks urgency, has failed to build financial buffers, and has borrowed billions while cutting infrastructure investment—leaving Fiji exposed to future disasters. Water Safety Law: WAF backs stronger clauses in the Public Health (Amendment) Bill to protect water catchments and support compensation for consumers affected by water quality failures. Labour & Migration: Immigration Minister Viliame Naupoto says about 4,000 foreign-worker applications were lodged in the past three months, renewing debate over safeguards and working conditions. Tourism Push: A US incentive travel programme is set to bring 450+ visitors and inject over $10m into Fiji’s economy.

High Court–Court of Appeal showdown: PM Sitiveni Rabuka’s bid to pause the Malimali ruling was rejected; he’ll appeal after the court said only the Judicial Services Commission can advise the President on FICAC commissioner removal. Justice system scrutiny: Constitution Review Commission submissions in Lautoka urged stronger safeguards for judicial independence, citing appointment concerns and delays in high-profile cases. Land law overhaul: Fiji’s State Lands Act 1945 and Land Use Act 2010 review has reached its final stage, with the Law Reform Commission submitting reports to the AG’s office. Customary land veto push: iTaukei landowners’ groups told the CRC they want constitutional “free, prior and informed consent” and a veto over major developments. Economy under pressure: The Reserve Bank cut Fiji’s 2026 growth forecast to 1.5% as inflation climbs above 6% and tourism momentum softens; debt is projected to hit about $11.37b by end-July. Public health bill concerns: Tourism officials warned proposed Public Health Act changes could leave resorts exposed to noise-related complaints. Cybercrime coordination: Fiji is strengthening cybercrime laws and pushing Pacific-wide legal cooperation through PILON. Police accountability: Minister Ioane Naivalurua ordered a thorough investigation into the death of Sakiasi Radravu, after family allegations of brutality and questions over whether the joint taskforce was involved.

PM Disaster Fund Scrutiny: Fiji MPs questioned accountability after OPM told the Standing Committee it does not keep records or receipts for the Prime Minister’s Disaster Fund, with the Rural and Maritime Development Ministry managing donations, payments and financial tracking. Public Health Budget Focus: Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu says the 2026-2027 budget must fully cover frontline pay, overtime and allowances to prevent hospital disruptions amid staff shortages. Water Safety & Compensation: The Water Authority of Fiji backed compensation for contaminated-water victims and urged stronger accountability in the Public Health Amendment Bill review. Climate-Resilience vs Waste: Environment Minister Lynda Tabuya warned Fiji can’t claim resilience while pollution and poor waste management keep damaging rivers, reefs and ecosystems. Social Infrastructure Boost: Cabinet approved an extra AUD$16m from Australia to extend Fiji’s schools and health facilities programme to Dec 2028, prioritising safer, inclusive and climate-resilient infrastructure. Regional Security & Cybercrime: Fiji hosted Pacific legal experts drafting a regional handbook to strengthen cybercrime laws and enforcement. Disaster Preparedness & Tsunami Watch: Fiji used COVID-19 lessons to improve future health emergency preparedness, while authorities issued tsunami advisories after a major Philippines earthquake and urged coastal communities to stay alert. Local Governance: Nasinu launched “Return and Earn” to cut litter and build civic pride, while Lautoka agencies plan coordinated action on rising street dwellers and street children.

Health Budget Priority: Fiji’s Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu says the 2026-2027 budget must fully cover doctors’ and nurses’ salaries, allowances and overtime to stop hospital disruptions and burnout amid staffing shortages. Australia–Fiji Funding: Cabinet-backed changes will route an extra A$24m from Australia through the Fiji Social Infrastructure Programme to upgrade schools and health facilities, with delivery extended to Dec 2028. Pacific Security & Climate: Australia and New Zealand reaffirmed Pacific-led regionalism ahead of the 55th PIF Leaders’ Meeting, pledging stronger support for Pacific priorities on security and climate action. NFP Election Push: Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua urged the National Federation Party to evolve and target at least 15 seats in 2027, while leader Biman Prasad said the NFP will contest alone. Justice Reform: The new “spent convictions” law is being hailed as a second-chance reform, removing eligible past convictions from police clearance certificates. Social Crisis Focus: Fiji’s Medical Association warns HIV and the drug crisis can’t be solved by healthcare alone, calling for a whole-of-government and whole-of-society response. Environment & Waste: Environment Minister Lynda Tabuya says Fiji can’t claim climate resilience while pollution and poor waste management keep harming rivers, reefs and ecosystems. Tsunami Watch: After a major Philippines earthquake, Fiji is under monitoring with coastal advisories urging people to stay alert and avoid beaches. Local Governance: Lautoka agencies are drafting a coordinated plan to address rising street dwellers and street children, including concerns raised by residents and businesses.

NFP Election Push: Opposition leader Pio Tikoduadua challenged the National Federation Party to win 15 seats in the 2027 General Election, warning against complacency and urging the party to stay relevant to voters. Sugar Sector Relief: Inia Seruiratu welcomed Government’s $85 per tonne guaranteed cane price for the 2026 crop, saying it brings certainty but noting wider pressures still threaten the industry. Public Health Law Debate: Parliament heard calls to tighten Fiji’s Public Health Amendment Bill—consumer advocates want compulsory measures backed by scientific proof and fairer, tiered penalties instead of flat fines for both businesses and residents. Welfare Funding Unclear: Government has not decided whether to extend the temporary 50% social welfare top-up beyond July, saying it will assess the fuel crisis’s impact on finances first. Disability Inclusion: Fiji reaffirmed its disability inclusion commitment at the Pacific Islands Forum Women Leaders Meeting, pointing to a 2025–2035 national policy targeting improved access and opportunities. Maritime Security: Japan-backed plans to provide four vessels to strengthen Fiji’s maritime surveillance aim to counter growing drug trafficking threats. Aviation Link: Fiji Airways will restore direct Nadi–Nouméa flights from 22 September, supporting regional travel and intergovernmental movement. Constitution Review: Submissions to the CRC included calls for GCC to appoint the President and for term limits to cap politicians at two terms. Sports: Tepatasi retained the Marist Sevens title, beating Yaro Chiefs 10-5 in a tight final.

Constitution Review: Submissions to the CRC in Nadi/Nagado pushed for stronger traditional checks on power, including calls for the GCC to appoint the President and for term limits of no more than two terms, alongside renewed protection for iTaukei rights. Public Health Law: Parliament heard that environmental health officers face abuse and assault while enforcing the Public Health Amendment Bill, while the Consumer Council warned compulsory vaccinations and treatment must be backed by scientific evidence and proportionate safeguards. Welfare & Fuel Costs: Government has not decided whether to extend the temporary 50% social welfare top-up beyond July, saying it will assess the fuel crisis impact on public finances. Justice & Accountability: Police say investigations into the death of Jone Vakarise after a joint raid are ongoing, with no timeline yet for findings. Environment & Waste: Environment Minister Lynda Tabuya urged behaviour change on waste and launched a national plastics inventory, as Fiji rejected a major Vuda waste-to-energy proposal over unresolved issues. Maritime Security: Japan is set to provide four vessels to boost Fiji Navy surveillance against drug trafficking, with anti-narcotics legislation also being fast-tracked. Regional Politics & Parties: NFP leader Biman Prasad says the party will contest the next election on its own, while stressing the current coalition continues to the end of its term. Health Training: GX Foundation and Fiji National University signed an MoU to expand public health training and youth development.

Constitution Review Commission: Sabeto residents urged tougher constitutional safeguards on drug bail, saying accused drug offenders should not get bail until proven not guilty, as the CRC also heard calls for limiting political leaders to two terms and strengthening accountability on promises. Public Health & Law: Fiji’s environmental health body wants noise pollution explicitly included in the Public Health Amendment Bill so officers can enforce it. Civil Service Pay Debate: Opposition MP Premila Kumar questioned the Coalition Government’s financial management after Rabuka floated possible civil servants’ pay cuts, while the Fiji Teachers Union rejected any salary reduction. Justice & Access: A new Magistrates Court facility is planned for Korotasere to cut travel burdens and speed up responses in a drug-cultivation corridor. Environment & Chemicals: Fiji is stepping up hazardous chemicals and waste management ahead of its Stockholm Convention report, including moves to join Basel, Rotterdam and Minamata conventions. Health Response: A nationwide dengue and mosquito-borne disease control program was launched with support from the GX Foundation. Transport Costs: Taxi operators renewed calls for fuel relief, saying fares have been stuck since 2011 while fuel costs soar. Diplomatic Oversight: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Fiji’s overseas missions are audited and scrutinised through Parliament, responding to questions about embassy costs and operations.

Marist Sevens: Tepatasi will face Yaro Chiefs in the Vailima International Marist Sevens final after Tepatasi edged Laumua o Tumua 22-19 and Yaro Chiefs beat Tama Uli 27-0; a similar Fiji-Samoa final is set for the women’s division with Tagimoucia taking on No Idea, with finals expected around 9pm. Fiji Rugby League: Mick Potter has been confirmed as head coach of Fiji Bati, with work permit and contract formalities underway, as Fiji ramps up for the Battle of the Bati and World Cup preparations. Public Accountability: Fiji’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says questions about embassy costs and operations are legitimate, pointing to parliamentary scrutiny, audits and annual reporting for oversight. Cost of Living Politics: Fiji Teachers Union rejects any idea of cutting civil servants’ salaries amid fuel-driven pressures, while Opposition MP Premila Kumar questions government spending and warns pay cuts would shift the burden onto workers. Health & Environment: Fiji launches a nationwide dengue and mosquito-borne disease control push with GX Foundation support, and starts work on hazardous chemicals and waste reporting under the Stockholm POPs framework. Transport Pressure: Fiji Taxi Association calls for government relief as fuel and operating costs rise, arguing taxis have been ignored compared with bus operators. Governance & Justice: Judicial Department plans a new Magistrates Court facility in Korotasere to cut travel costs and speed responses in the Natewa-Korotasere corridor. Ocean Governance: The new Office for Pacific Ocean Commissioner (OPOC) gains support as Palau backs the mandate to coordinate ocean policy across the region.

Fiji Sports Funding Push: The Fiji National Sports Commission is asking Government to lift its budget from $13m to a submission totalling $30m for 2026-27, including a High Performance Unit, disability sports coordination, and Team Fiji support for the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti. Justice Upgrade in Cakaudrove: The Judicial Department plans a new Magistrates Court facility in Korotasere to cut costly travel to Savusavu and speed up responses in the Natewa-Korotasere corridor, including DVRO matters. Health Warning on Drug Spillover: Security and health experts say Fiji’s HIV crisis and meth traces in wastewater across the region are “warning signs” that drug and disease risks are spreading to Tonga, Solomon Islands and beyond. Fiji Rugby Development Drive: FRU chairman John Sanday launched three initiatives focused on player welfare, including education, medical support and transition programmes, with special emphasis on women’s rugby. EU Seafood Rules Training: Fisheries officials from Fiji, Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu trained in Suva on new EU freezer-vessel requirements that could affect 97% of EU-listed Pacific vessels exporting to the bloc. Regional Diplomacy & Trade: Pacific trade officials met in Suva to shape the region’s trade agenda, while Forum foreign ministers endorsed a regional response mechanism for Middle East-linked economic and security risks. Nasinu Waste Plan: Nasinu Town Council launched the Return and Earn initiative to reduce litter and pay residents for eligible bottles and cans.