AGP Executive Report

Electoral Reform: The Fiji Electoral Commission has issued unprecedented new rules for electoral objections, nominations, and deregistration, with clear appeal processes to be gazetted and publicised soon. Anti-Corruption Appointments: The Judicial Services Commission is now assessing applications for the FICAC Commissioner and Director of Public Prosecutions roles, with recommendations going to the President. Public Service Pay Equity: Corrections officers’ pay is set to shift from job descriptions to rank-based rates, with a $64.7m allocation to close long-running salary gaps. Drug Fight & Community Role: Police say drug operations continue but tactics are changing; communities in Labasa are urged to lead prevention efforts alongside police and chiefs. National Security Readiness: RFMF’s Exercise Bougainville 2026 will test multi-agency crisis response from Aug 7–28, starting with disaster relief and expanding to unrest and maritime scenarios. Development Finance: AIIB has approved an $80m loan-and-grant package for Fiji to boost economic resilience, climate preparedness, and private-sector reforms. Infrastructure Push: Designs for 11 critical bridges are done, with contracts for four major bridges expected to be signed within two months. Tourism & Economy: Fiji recorded 98,522 visitor arrivals in June—its highest-ever for the month—driven by new resorts, routes, and connectivity. Health & Humanitarian Aid: Conjoined twins Di Cecea and Jesipeli leave for Saudi Arabia for life-changing separation surgery, fully funded by the Saudi government with Fiji providing a medical escort.

Fiji Politics: PM Sitiveni Rabuka says Fiji’s 2027 General Election will be held within the constitutional window (24 Dec–4 Feb), pushing back on Opposition concerns about any delay. Legal & Governance: The ODPP has filed an appeal against former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem’s acquittal, citing about 10 legal grounds and saying the case is now headed for the Court of Appeal. Health Crisis: Fiji’s Ministry of Health warns up to 5,000 people may be living with HIV without knowing it, as confirmed cases surge and officials race to expand testing. Consumer Protection: The Consumer Council of Fiji says new scam and credit law reviews are underway to keep up with online shopping risks. Corrections: Justice Minister Siromi Turaga says inmate abuse allegations are being investigated through proper disciplinary processes, while admitting standards have not always met expectations. Economy & Trade: Fiji and New Zealand have renewed the Duavata Partnership (2026–2030) to deepen trade, investment, security, governance, social wellbeing and climate resilience. Regional Security Debate: Solomon Islands Opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare attacks a proposed US shiprider deal as a threat to sovereignty. Sports & National Pride: Fijian Drua appoints Brad Mooar as head coach for 2027, aiming to keep a “distinctly Fijian” rugby identity.

Elections & Governance: Fiji PM Sitiveni Rabuka says the 2027 General Election will be held strictly within the constitutional window (24 Dec–4 Feb), pushing back on Opposition concerns and noting the People’s Alliance has already started election preparations. Regional Leadership: Rabuka also defended the MSG appointment of Dr Anna Naupa as director-general after Vanuatu chiefs questioned a woman taking the role. Development Finance: AIIB President Zou Jiayi reaffirmed long-term support for Fiji, as the bank approves US$80m to boost economic resilience, climate and disaster preparedness, alongside World Bank co-financing. Disaster Resilience: Ground was broken for a $1.6m evacuation centre for Viria Village in Naitasiri, tied to water-security gains from the community’s role in the raw water intake project. Health & Social Policy: The FRCS will get stronger powers to recover unpaid taxes, while Health officials warn diabetic foot complications are driving 70% of CWM surgeries and that internship medical graduates will be posted by August. Public Safety: Fiji’s Consumer Council launched a nationwide scams awareness push, rolling out to Lautoka and Labasa after Suva.

FICAC & Courts: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the Commission of Inquiry report into former FICAC commissioner Barbara Malimali’s appointment will not be tabled in Parliament—only inquiry expenditure details will be reported, ending hopes of debate. Anti-Corruption Update: FICAC has dropped its prosecution of former DPP Christopher Pryde after it could not serve him with court documents, while the case against former deputy PM Manoa Kamikamica continues. Elections: Rabuka reiterates Fiji’s 2027 General Election will be held within the constitutional window (Dec 24–Feb 4), responding to Opposition concerns. Regional Security Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Sakiasi Ditoka says Fiji is building an “arc of cooperation” with Pacific partners, including renewed engagement with New Zealand on security and people-to-people ties. Maritime & Fisheries: Fiji is developing a new National Monitoring, Control and Surveillance strategy to tackle illegal fishing, and has begun an electronic monitoring system for offshore vessels. Suva Harbour Cleanup: Work is set to start removing the first three of 17 derelict vessels from Suva Harbour under the Captain Johnathan Smith Fund, with Fiji Ports Corporation leading operations. Public Safety Sector: Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua says Fiji will review the Security Industry Act to modernise licensing and crack down on illegal operators.

Election Watch: PM Sitiveni Rabuka says Fiji’s 2027 General Election is locked in for the constitutional window (Dec 24–Feb 4), after Opposition concerns about possible delays. Security & Law: Government moves to reform Fiji’s private security sector via a review of the Security Industry Act, aiming to modernise licensing and crack down on illegal operators. Fisheries Governance: Fiji begins rolling out an electronic monitoring system for offshore fishing and is developing a new National Monitoring, Control and Surveillance strategy to tackle IUU fishing. Climate & Finance: AIIB approves US$80m sovereign-backed support to boost Fiji’s climate and disaster preparedness and strengthen reforms for private sector growth. Regional Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Sakiasi Ditoka pushes an “arc of cooperation” with Pacific partners on security and trade, including talks linked to the Ocean of Peace. Public Services: Health Ministry continues talks with Suva Funeral Directors over morgue overcrowding claims, while the company denies any storage shortage. Youth & Sports: Fiji’s U18 girls handball team heads to the IHF Women’s Youth World Championship with support from the Office of the Prime Minister and China’s Embassy; and swimmer Tolu Young becomes the first Fijian to reach the Commonwealth Games men’s 50m freestyle final.

Fiji Fisheries Oversight: Fiji has completed the first phase of an electronic monitoring system for offshore fishing, installing high-tech cameras on selected vessels and training data analysts, with further expansion funded in the new financial year. High Court & Anti-Corruption: Fiji’s High Court permanently stayed criminal proceedings against former journalist Charlie Charters, ruling FICAC breached his constitutional rights and abused the court process. PM & Rural Resilience: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka launched the BE-GREEN programme in Cakaudrove, urging communities to strengthen local production and use land and marine resources as fuel and cost pressures bite. Disaster Preparedness: A $1.6m evacuation centre is set for Viria Village in Naitasiri, part of a wider disaster resilience push for resource-owner communities. Education & School Safety: The Education Ministry is investigating an unauthorised religious group visit to Natabua High School and has ordered action against the education officer involved. Teacher Shortage Plan: The Education Ministry is considering deploying final-year students in high-demand subjects to help address a reported 1,000 teacher vacancies. Justice System Capacity: Police say a forensic equipment shortage has delayed the investigation into the death of Constable Peni Racagi, with samples sent to New Zealand for analysis. Regional Politics Watch: The ICC voted to remove chief prosecutor Karim Khan, raising questions about the future of the Palestine investigation and the status of arrest warrants. Corruption Agenda: The UN General Assembly opened a special session against corruption with calls to redouble efforts and protect vulnerable communities.

Court & Corruption: Fiji High Court permanently stays criminal proceedings against former journalist Charlie Charters, ruling FICAC breached his constitutional rights and abused process—renewing protections for journalists’ ability to keep confidential sources. Education & Safeguarding: Education Minister Aseri Radrodro orders action after a visiting religious group’s school visit at Natabua High School lacked prior approval, and the Ministry investigates another unauthorised school visit facilitated by an education officer. Teacher Shortage: The Education Ministry is considering deploying final-year students in high-demand subjects, while the Fijian Teachers Association warns vacancies have reached 1,000 amid brain drain and stagnant wages. Rural Development: IFAD’s US$25m Be-Green programme launches in Cakaudrove to boost rural livelihoods, climate resilience and sustainable farming; PM Rabuka rejects claims of provincial favouritism, pointing to nationwide road problems. Governance & Finance: Government secures a US$178m AIIB loan to strengthen disaster preparedness and public finances, as part of a wider US$512m World Bank-backed reform package. Public Integrity & Oversight: Rabuka says only the inquiry’s expenditure will be tabled in Parliament regarding the COI into former FICAC commissioner Barbara Malimali. Higher Education Funding: HEC funding formula draws equity concerns after reports that 97% of grants go to universities, leaving non-university TVET institutions with far smaller shares. Security & Regional Posture: China defends its growing Pacific military role during PLA anniversary celebrations in Suva, insisting defence cooperation is peace- and development-focused. Community & Sport: UNGA holds a special session against corruption; Suva hosts the Bara Battle fundraiser raising a record $250,000 for children with disabilities, while Fiji Taekwondo’s President’s Cup begins with 163 athletes in Suva.

ICJ Climate Push: Pacific leaders and student campaigners marked one year since the ICJ’s landmark climate advisory opinion, urging governments to turn legal clarity into real action ahead of pre-COP31 in Fiji and COP31. Pre-COP31 Agenda: Fiji’s environment officials say the Pacific will use the ICJ ruling as the legal foundation for negotiations, with oceans, climate finance and the 1.5°C target front and centre. Fiji Funding Boost: Fiji secured an AIIB loan of $178m (part of a $512m package) to strengthen disaster risk planning, public financial systems and support small businesses, with reforms targeted by 2028. FICAC Court Setback: A High Court permanent stay in the Charlie Charters case highlights serious flaws in how FICAC handled charging and constitutional rights. Education Oversight: The Education Minister ordered action against an officer for facilitating an overseas church group visit to Natabua High School without ministry approval. Welfare Ends: Fiji’s 50% welfare top-up will not be extended, reverting to normal rates from next month. Roads & Transport: A $300m China-funded road upgrade for Vanua Levu is set to break ground before year-end, alongside major Suva road works. Justice & Safety: Two former police officers jailed for 15 years for raping a 17-year-old while on patrol; police also moved to address scams and threats.

Legal & Anti-Corruption: The Suva High Court permanently stops the criminal case against former journalist Charlie Charters, saying FICAC’s charges were too broad and failed to identify who he allegedly aided and abetted. Court Proceedings: In the Manoa Kamikamica perjury case, the defence argues FICAC’s case has collapsed and questions whether an MP’s diary can prove key details, as the matter moves through a “case to answer” bid. Constitution & iTaukei Rights: Ro Teimumu urges constitutional changes, saying provisions affecting iTaukei institutions and land rights must be reviewed for the sake of younger generations. Health Policy: Fiji’s Ministry says HIV allocated funds will be fully utilised under a dedicated HIV taskforce, while a wellness centre opening highlights NCDs as a major killer of Fijians in their 40s to 60s. Climate & Environment: Fiji begins work on its 2026 State of the Environment Report, and Pacific climate ministers push a united COP31 position. Regional Diplomacy: Nauru plans to open an embassy in Jerusalem, joining Fiji and other Pacific states expanding Israel ties. Public Services & Development: CWM Hospital receives an $840,700 upgrade including Fiji’s first adolescent ward and a minor operating theatre.

Constitution & Elections: A parliamentary committee has rejected the Fiji Elections Office move to scrap the Results Mobile App, warning removal could fuel speculation and misinformation ahead of the 2026-2027 General Election. Governance & Accountability: PM Sitiveni Rabuka says the Commission of Inquiry report itself doesn’t need tabling in Parliament because it’s submitted to the Head of State, but only COI expenditure will be presented, with follow-up handled by OPM, DPP, FICAC and Police. Public Service & Stability: A political expert warns coups have left Fiji’s public service gripped by fear, weakening independence and decision-making. Health Infrastructure: CWM Hospital received an $840,700 upgrade from the LDS Church, including Fiji’s first dedicated adolescent ward and a new minor operating theatre to speed diabetic foot surgery. Education & Child Protection: The Human Rights Commission calls for investigation into a viral Lautoka school preaching video that appears to single out a student by religion. Regional Security & Diplomacy: New Zealand and Papua New Guinea signed a 2026–2029 defence cooperation statement in Port Moresby, expanding exercises and training. Regional Crime Warning: UNODC warns Pacific communities are increasingly targeted by scam syndicates using tech and AI, with losses in 2025 estimated up to $114.1b across Asia-Pacific. Community & Leadership: PM Rabuka commissioned Draiba Primary School’s new hall, highlighting the school’s legacy of producing three Fiji Presidents.

Scams & Security: The UN warns Pacific islands are being targeted by global scam syndicates, with fraud networks evolving into “interconnected” criminal franchises using tech, AI and social media. Constitution & Elections: Ro Teimumu urges caution over referendum numbers, saying Government should not assume it has the parliamentary support needed to move constitutional amendments to a public vote. Governance & Law: Acting AG Siromi Turaga says a new Constitution before the next general election is possible, but only after the independent Constitution Review Commission delivers its recommendations. Health PPP: Health Care Fiji’s PPP renegotiation is nearing finalisation, aiming to strengthen services and align Lautoka and Ba hospital operations with the 2026–2031 health plan. Human Rights: Fiji’s Human Rights Commission calls for Education Ministry action after allegations a student was singled out for his religion during a school session. RFMF Leadership: RFMF Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai tells senior officers to speak openly about weaknesses, warning poor communication has caused failures. Regional Defence: New Zealand and PNG sign a defence co-operation deal to expand training, exercises and exchanges amid rising strategic competition. Environment & Transport: Government reviews Fiji’s maritime shipping system to prevent monopolies and improve reliability for outer islands. Online Safety: MP Manoa Kamikamica backs Meta’s new child-protection tools but calls for stronger local laws to match.

Water Security: The ADB and Japan launched the $10m WISER Fund to strengthen water systems and resilience across Asia and the Pacific, using digital solutions to cut disaster risks. Pacific Peace vs Militarisation: Fiji’s “Ocean of Peace” vision is under pressure as the Pacific Conference of Churches warns it could be hijacked by defence interests, pointing to deterrence and collective defence provisions in Fiji-Australia security moves. COP31 Cost Scrutiny: Australia’s Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen faces backlash over reports of up to AUD$4.2m reserved for luxury Fiji resort accommodation and venues for pre-COP31 delegates, with critics questioning value for money. Suva & National Governance: Fiji’s Acting AG says a new Constitution draft could be ready before 1 Sept 2026, while the Constitutional Offices Commission is finalising a shortlist for the Fiji Corrections Service commissioner role. Local Services & Consumer Protection: FCCC is investigating Taveuni school bus suspensions over student fare disputes, and services are set to resume after talks. Housing Milestone: Keys were handed to 31 families at Nepani Subdivision under Fiji’s first-home ownership push. Scams & Digital Finance: Police report Fijians losing over $1.3m to scams since 2017 as a dedicated scams response push ramps up, while Vodafone Fiji rejects claims of hidden M-PAiSA charges and points to published tariffs.

Scams & Consumer Protection: Fiji’s Consumer Council says awareness alone won’t stop scams and is calling for stronger systems, partnerships and consumer safeguards as National Scams Awareness Week 2026 gets underway. Health Infrastructure & PPPs: Government has ruled out a public-private partnership for CWM Hospital for now, saying it will first assess Aspen Medical’s performance running Lautoka and Ba hospitals before expanding the model. Lautoka Hospital Rebuild: Aspen says Lautoka Hospital’s upgrade and rebuild can move into the next phase once an updated PPP agreement is finalised, with design and development expected to follow. Anti-Corruption Court Update: In the Kamikamica perjury trial, FICAC has closed its case and defence lawyer Wylie Clarke is set to file a no case to answer; a key witness also refused to name MPs. Public Service After Coups: TRC discussions highlight how coups stalled reforms and triggered brain drain, leaving Fiji’s public service struggling to regain trust and independence. Essential Services Enforcement: FCCC says children’s futures are “not a bargaining chip” after it moved to enforce action over Taveuni school bus suspensions, pushing for reliable transport. Pacific Security & Diplomacy: Australia raised “strong concerns” with China over its missile test near Tuvalu, while analysts warn Pacific unity is hard to achieve amid different ties with Beijing. Labour & Wages Reform: FTUC warns it may stage a national march if the Employment Relations Bill isn’t tabled and passed in the August sitting. Suva Roads Upgrade: Major road works in Suva, including Ratu Sukuna Road and Extension Street links, have launched with a reduced cost and a focus on safety and drainage. GBV Police Training: FWCC urges senior police to adopt survivor-centred responses to violence against women and girls, training officers on rights and legal frameworks.

Constitution & Justice: Fiji’s Acting AG Siromi Turaga says constitutional drafters are already working to have a new draft ready before 1 September 2026, while Opposition MP Jone Usamate argues trust in justice institutions must be fixed first, not rushed constitutional change. Labour & Parliament: The Fiji Trades Union Congress warns it may organise a national march if the long-delayed Employment Relations Bill keeps stalling, despite assurances it will be tabled in August. COP31 Cost Fight: Australia’s Chris Bowen faces fresh backlash over reports of up to A$4.2m reserved for luxury Fiji resort accommodation for COP31 delegates, with critics calling it poor value for money. Ocean of Peace Debate: The Pacific Conference of Churches warns Fiji and regional leaders not to let the “Ocean of Peace” vision be overtaken by military interests, pointing to defence provisions in the Veitacini Treaty. Suva Infrastructure: Work begins on the Ratu Sukuna Road upgrade and Extension Street link to Brown Street, targeting safer roads and reduced congestion in Suva’s busiest corridor. Taveuni Bus Dispute: School bus services on Taveuni are suspended over a fare dispute, with FCCC enforcement action and community efforts stepping in to get students to school and exams. Health & Environment: Lautoka Hospital commissions two new medical waste incinerators in a $1.2m upgrade to improve safe disposal across Fiji’s Western Division. Scams & Payments: Police report Fijians have lost over $1.3m to scams since 2017, while Vodafone Fiji rejects claims of hidden M-PAiSA charges, saying fees are publicly disclosed. Regional Security: Solomon Islands signals a more balanced approach by moving to sign a US Coast Guard ship-rider deal for patrols in its waters.

Housing & Local Government: PM Sitiveni Rabuka handed keys to 31 families at the Housing Authority’s Nepani Subdivision, urging safe, loving homes and highlighting “Borrow and Build” support and affordable models. Education Disruption: In Taveuni, bus services were suspended over a student fare dispute, but residents stepped in—one paid for buses and another used his vehicle—to keep students, especially LANA candidates, from missing school. Welfare & Poverty: Minister Sashi Kiran says welfare funding is shifting toward self-reliance, with livelihood programs now supporting 130,000+ vulnerable Fijians and a National Poverty Strategy due soon; she also defended digitisation efforts after audit concerns. Consumer & Digital Finance: Vodafone Fiji rejected claims of hidden M-PAiSA charges, saying fees are publicly disclosed and outlining free transfer limits and withdrawal costs. Public Safety & Police: A man accused of threatening to burn Suva or remove the Constitution was released while police await digital forensics; Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu warned of tough action on threats and racial hatred. Anti-Scams Push: Police say Fijians have lost over $1.3m to scams since 2017, and a dedicated Scams Section is being launched as investigations and prosecutions continue. Constitution Timeline: Acting AG Siromi Turaga says constitutional drafters are working to have a new draft ready before Sept 1, 2026, with the next election possibly under a new Constitution depending on CRC recommendations. Economy & Oversight: Parliament is calling for stronger accountability at Tourism Fiji after reports were delayed for years and spending outcomes were unclear, with concerns raised over the Na Vualiku Project. Trade & Supply: Fiji approved sugar imports as a precaution while insisting local stocks remain sufficient, aiming to prevent shortages ahead of the harvest season. International/Regional: Fiji is finalising a diaspora policy to keep citizens abroad engaged in development, and Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale is in Washington for high-level talks.

Regional Security & Defence: Fiji’s Acting AG Siromi Turaga says RFMF budget cuts won’t affect peacekeeping commitments, while a Suva conference urges peace operations to adapt to drones, misinformation and tighter budgets. Constitution & Police Action: Police arrested a man in his 50s over an alleged social media threat to remove Fiji’s 2013 Constitution or burn the capital; Turaga also ordered a report on remand claims that detainees were forced to eat beef and pork. Treaties & Parliament: Australia’s $1.57b Vuvale funding only kicks in after Fiji Parliament ratifies the agreements, expected to be tabled in the Aug–Sep sitting. Local Governance: MP Alvick Maharaj says FRA maintenance money must follow responsibilities to councils for footpaths, streetlights and waterways—Labasa says handover funding is still unclear. Elections & Parties: Proposed Liberation of Fiji Party re-submitted for registration after rejection; Turaga says the next General Election could be held under a new Constitution if the review lands on time. Justice & Courts: High Court dismissed Maui Bay development challenges, saying key issues were already settled by the Court of Appeal. Public Safety: Fiji Police launched a dedicated Scams Section after $1.3m was lost to scams since 2017. Youth & Society: Sashi Kiran urged youth to champion peace and cohesion at a Youth Talanoa session.