AGP Executive Report

Constitution & Parliament: Fiji Labour leader Mahendra Chaudhry says MPs had too little time to scrutinise the Constitution Amendment Bill, alleging the process was rushed and that the Supreme Court opinion was treated as law without proper conversion into a Bill. iTaukei Governance: The Bose Levu Vakaturaga Bill has been passed and restored as a standalone institution, separating it from the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs and giving chiefs a renewed role in national decision-making. Maritime Security: Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua says Fiji is seeking Australian uncrewed surface craft for surveillance up to 40 nautical miles, to support Police and Customs in tackling drugs and border threats. Drug Justice: Police are investigating the theft of seized cocaine from the Suva High Court evidence storage, with forensic testing reportedly finding the remaining “cocaine” replaced with flour. Women & Leadership: FCOSS executive director Vani Catanasiga says Fiji has “a lot of catching-up to do” on women in national leadership, pointing to Tuvalu’s appointment of its first female Governor-General. Climate Frontlines: Pre-COP31 in Nadi is set to elevate community voices on relocation and climate impacts, while Tuvalu’s coral devastation is highlighted as leaders visit atolls ahead of COP31. Sugar & Jobs: Cane farmers demand clarity on whether the $85 cane price will rise, as production costs and fuel increases squeeze growers; Government also continues talks on sugar mill upgrades and locally sourced organic fertiliser support.

Constitution & Referendum Roadmap: Parliament passed the Constitution Amendment Bill 2026 at second reading and set up a 30-day public consultation with a Joint Parliamentary Select Committee, with a referendum expected only if MPs later secure a two-thirds vote; the proposed Constitution would normally start 31 March 2028, though the President can bring the date forward. Drug Evidence Scandal: Fiji police are investigating how nearly 40kg of cocaine seized in 2019 was replaced with flour in the Suva High Court evidence vault, with tests reportedly showing tampering and a focus on those responsible for exhibit management. Maritime Powers: The Maritime Powers Bill 2026 cleared Parliament, giving authorised officers clearer authority to stop, board, search, detain and arrest at sea to strengthen enforcement across drugs, fisheries, customs and biosecurity. Climate Pre-COP in Fiji: World powers and Pacific leaders are set to meet in Nadi for pre-COP31 talks (Oct 5–8), pushing for 1.5°C, stronger adaptation finance and ocean-focused priorities ahead of COP31 in Antalya. Ageing Policy: Fiji is preparing a National Ageing Policy 2026–2035 after consultations, aiming for longer lives that are healthier, safer and more dignified. HIV in Sport: Health officials urged sporting bodies to strengthen HIV safety protocols, including testing and universal precautions, especially in contact sports.

Cocaine scandal: Fiji police say nearly 40kg of cocaine seized for a Suva High Court trial was swapped with flour after going missing from the court registry, with tests showing exhibits were tampered with and an investigation focused on those managing the evidence. Constitution process: Parliament advanced the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 after a second reading, setting up a 30-day public consultation with a Joint Parliamentary Select Committee led by PM Rabuka before a third reading and a referendum on one question—whether to support the proposed Constitution—expected later this year. Maritime law: The Maritime Powers Bill 2026 passed, giving authorised officers clearer authority to stop, board, search, detain and arrest at sea to better coordinate drug, fisheries, customs, immigration and biosecurity operations. Climate diplomacy: Fiji is preparing for Pre-COP31 with about 36 ministerial-level representatives expected, aiming to narrow differences ahead of COP31 and push a Pacific-led Falefatupekasa Declaration. Social policy: Government unveiled a National Ageing Policy 2026–2035 after consultations, and Fiji also moved to strengthen HIV safety in sport with calls for testing and universal precautions. Economy outlook: The ADB cut Fiji’s growth forecast to 2.2% for 2026, citing external headwinds despite resilient tourism arrivals.

Constitution Reform: Fiji’s Constitution Amendment Bill 2026 cleared its second reading after the Government secured the required 35 votes, with 38 MPs backing it; debate now moves to an 11-member Special Committee for public consultation before a possible referendum. Anti-Corruption Shake-up: Transparency and Integrity Fiji is pushing for clarity on what will replace FICAC before its legal foundation is removed, warning Fiji must keep an independent, properly resourced corruption-fighting system. Immunity Debate: PM Sitiveni Rabuka says proposed immunity provisions are meant to retain protections recognised by the Supreme Court, not to shield individuals, as Parliament continues scrutiny. Election Law Changes: Parliament passed major political funding reforms allowing foreigners and former Fiji citizens to donate, alongside new caps ($20,000 donations; $4m party spending; $100,000 candidate spending). Maritime Security Powers: The Maritime Powers Bill 2026 passed, giving the Navy authority to board and disable suspect ships with gunfire only as a last resort under strict conditions. Climate Diplomacy: World powers are sending delegates to Fiji for pre-COP31 talks (Oct 5–8) and a Tuvalu visit, as Pacific leaders press for 1.5°C, stronger climate finance, and protection of maritime boundaries. Cost Pressures: The FCCC warns higher fuel and shipping costs could lift prices of imported goods, with knock-on effects for food and farming inputs.

Constitution & Elections: Fiji Parliament cleared the path for a national referendum and passed major election-law changes, including removing the 48-hour campaign blackout, shrinking the polling-station exclusion zone to 100m, expanding postal voting, and setting new political finance limits ($100,000 candidate cap; $4m party cap; $20,000 annual donation cap for Fijian/former Fijian citizens) plus tougher electoral misconduct rules. Constitution Scrutiny: PM Sitiveni Rabuka moves to set up an 11-member special committee to scrutinise the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026, with public submissions and a report back within 30 days. RFMF Immunity Alarm: RFMF Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai warns proposed immunity in the Bill could block legal challenge for years, amid broader institutional trust concerns. Court Cocaine Security: Chief Justice Salesi Temo confirmed security upgrades after cocaine exhibits went missing/tampered with, ordered records handed to police, and said a judicial review over FICAC appointment will be heard on Nov 4. HIV Response: Parliament passed Fiji’s needle exchange law to roll out harm-reduction measures during the HIV emergency. Climate Diplomacy: Fiji and Tuvalu host Pre-COP31 talks as Pacific leaders push to keep 1.5°C alive, while Australia’s coal expansion decision draws criticism ahead of the summit. Regional Defence: Fiji and Australia’s Ocean of Peace Alliance is described as deliberately non-prescriptive on what happens in conflict. Transport Links: Tuvalu announced cheaper, subsidised Fiji airfares and improved maritime/digital connections.

HIV Response: Parliament passed Fiji’s HIV/AIDS (Amendment) Bill 2026, fast-tracking legal harm-reduction measures including sterile needle and syringe distribution, PrEP/PEP, condoms, counselling and referrals, with protections only for authorised programmes. Drug Enforcement Overhaul: The Counter Narcotics Bill 2026 was passed, creating a Counter-Narcotics Bureau and new powers for search, covert operations, surveillance and controlled deliveries, plus a narco-terrorism offence. Maritime Security: The Maritime Powers Bill 2026 cleared unanimously, expanding authority to board, search and detain suspected ships in Fiji waters and, with conditions, beyond. Court Cocaine Scandal: Police confirmed cocaine exhibits at Suva High Court were replaced with flour, with investigations focused on those managing evidence. Constitution & Elections: PM Rabuka says if the Constitution Amendment Bill fails to get a two-thirds vote tomorrow, Fiji will go straight to an election; the Bill also proposes retaining immunity provisions and reshaping Parliament. Pre-COP Integrity: Transparency International urged Pacific governments to push for independent ethics oversight, conflict-of-interest rules and fossil-fuel tie disclosures ahead of Pre-COP31 in Fiji and Tuvalu. Election Rules: Fiji Electoral Commission tightened campaign limitations, restricting use of state resources and government premises for campaigning.

Constitution & Elections: Fiji PM Sitiveni Rabuka says if the Constitution Amendment Bill fails to win a two-thirds vote at the second reading, Parliament “stop” and Fiji goes straight to an election. Parliament Watch: The Bill keeps immunity provisions despite the Constitution Review Committee’s push to remove them, and also proposes retaining “Fijian” as the common national identity while naming iTaukei as iTaukeinivanua o Viti. Media & Rights: A new look at Fiji’s Online Safety Act warns it could still chill journalism and freedom of expression. Public Health Crisis: Fiji’s HIV emergency is worsening, with paediatric cases showing a “generalised epidemic” affecting mothers and babies even without “risky behaviours.” Drugs & Court Security: Cocaine evidence has been stolen from the Suva High Court and swapped with flour, with police also auditing drugs and cash across police stations; separate reports say vodka was replaced with water at Nadi duty free. Climate & Disaster Prep: Government is stepping up El Niño preparedness through a national council meeting, while Pre-COP31 planning boosts iTaukei resource owners’ roles and women’s relocation stories. Social Policy: Cabinet is set to consider a National Ageing Policy 2026–2035 after consultations, and a new prosthetics camp will expand access across divisions. Economy & Costs: Imports rose by $101m in July, and political donation and campaign spending limits are being debated.

Cocaine scandal hits Fiji courts: Government and police are scrambling after reports that cocaine exhibits were swapped for flour at the Suva High Court, with investigations now covering multiple cases and “persons of interest” as officials face mounting public anger and calls for accountability. Constitution showdown: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says Fiji will go to an election if the Constitution Amendment Bill fails to secure a two-thirds vote at tomorrow’s second reading, while the Bill’s details—return of a Senate, President/VP appointment via Bose Levu Vakaturaga, and changes to parliamentary structure—spark Opposition scrutiny. FICAC future in doubt: The Constitution Amendment Bill would repeal the 2007 FICAC Act, raising alarm among governance-watchers. HIV emergency deepens: Reports from Suva’s hospitals describe a worsening HIV crisis affecting babies, with calls for urgent action and stigma reduction. Power rationing risk: Prolonged dry conditions and low dam levels have prompted warnings of possible electricity rationing, with hospitals prioritised. Regional security focus: Fiji and partners at the South Pacific Defence Ministers’ Meeting stress deeper cooperation on disaster response and transnational crime, but insist on sovereignty. Sports & community: Bula Boys booked the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup final after beating New Caledonia 2-1, while Fiji’s women’s market event in Suva highlights regional business opportunities.

Drug Evidence Scandal: Fiji Police launched a major probe after cocaine exhibits worth about $31m were allegedly tampered with at the Suva High Court—remaining bars reportedly tested negative and were replaced with flour, with CCTV and biometric systems reportedly not working during the period. Accountability in Parliament: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka vowed consequences for those involved, while the Opposition pressed on whether the breach could undermine trust in the judiciary. Investigation Update: Police say six persons of interest have been identified and investigators are piecing together access timelines, with police clarifying they don’t guard exhibits once deposited with the Judiciary. Cost of Living: Fuel and LPG prices rise from tomorrow—diesel up to $3.41/litre and cooking gas cylinders also increase—after the FCCC’s monthly review. Local Governance: Housing and Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa told Parliament roadside vending needs FRA approval and warned vendors about road reserve rules. Constitution & Parliament: Opposition MPs questioned fast-tracking of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga Bill and challenged the Constitution Bill’s voting threshold and access to the text. Health Staffing: Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu said 69 senior medical positions are vacant, with discussions underway about recruiting from the Philippines. Climate Diplomacy: Fiji is hosting PSIDS pre-COP31 meetings as Pacific leaders push to keep 1.5°C alive and link climate action to health and resilient services.

Cocaine Case Shock: Fiji police say nearly 40kg of cocaine stored as evidence at Suva High Court was swapped out for flour, with investigations focused on court registry handlers and a person of interest reportedly overseas; Justice Minister Siromi Turaga warned “no one will be spared.” Parliament & Law: The Counter-Narcotics Bill to create a Counter-Narcotics Bureau is set for debate in Parliament on Thursday under Standing Order 51, while the HIV/AIDS Amendment Bill will also be debated and voted on Thursday to legally enable a needles and syringes programme. Anti-Corruption Courtroom Move: FICAC has been ordered to bring in an investigation officer in Prof. Biman Prasad’s trial over a disputed document, as a “trial within a trial” continues. Public Service Cooperation: PM Sitiveni Rabuka told Parliament Fiji will strengthen public administration cooperation with Serbia via FLIPS, including staff exchanges and capacity building. Water Crisis: Communities in Yasawa and Nacula report worsening dry-season shortages, with residents calling for boreholes and faster Government support. Constitution Review Voices: Tui Nayau backs the GCC consultation as a culturally grounded process representing iTaukei communities, urging respect for the review’s outcomes. Pre-COP31 Climate Push: A major 1.5°C to Stay Alive forum in Suva will feed into Pre-COP31 discussions, with Pacific experts pressing for survival-focused climate action. HIV Harm-Reduction Warning: Health workers warn of “bluetoothing/flashblooding” drug practices that can spread HIV and hepatitis, citing Fiji’s rising HIV numbers.

Constitution & Parliament: Fiji’s Constitution Review Commission push is set for a big debate in Parliament, with PM Sitiveni Rabuka backing a two-term limit for the PM and removal of the immunity clause—though he says the final call is for MPs. Referendum Bill: The National Referendum Bill report is tabled ahead of Thursday’s debate, proposing a President-issued writ, overseas voting for registered voters, and a 30–45 day referendum period. Defence & Security Treaties: JSCOT will hold a public hearing on Thursday 1 October on the Ocean of Peace Alliance and Fiji-Australia Vuvale Union, focusing on practical effects for Fiji-Australia ties and regional security. Health & Safety: Fiji declares an HIV emergency as new cases surge, with reports of children testing positive and calls for faster action; meanwhile Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu warns police culture must change after 38 officer deaths and stigma blocks mental health support. Water & Climate: Government says 8,611 rural households rely on high-risk water; communities like Seaqaqa are still pleading for boreholes as El Niño-driven dry conditions bite. Economy & Oversight: Parliament questions sugar tribunal accountability after its 2021 report was submitted nearly four years late; and MPs scrutinise Fiji’s tax arrears of $495.4m and concerns over refunds, write-offs and penalties. Transport: FCCC extends the temporary taxi fare drop charge until 31 March 2027. Pre-COP31: Fiji outlines its four-pillar Pre-COP31 stance—1.5°C, climate finance, oceans, and Pacific leadership—while keeping the list of attending world leaders under security protocols.

Parliament & Finance: MPs grilled Fiji’s Financial Intelligence Unit after hearing an enforcement “disconnect”: while 6.14m transaction reports and 287 intelligence products were produced in 2024, lawmakers said they can’t track how many cases led to investigations, prosecutions, convictions or asset recovery—tax crimes were flagged as dominating value. Tax Fairness: Separate debate raised concerns over $184.6m in tax penalties waived or written off by Fiji Revenue and Customs, with MPs questioning transparency and whether compliance is becoming “optional.” Justice & Police Procedures: A High Court meth trial heard claims of communication failures and unclear procedures inside the Counter-Narcotics Bureau, with defence alleging confusion over consignment details. Maritime Security: Fiji and Australia are stepping up defence collaboration using advanced maritime surveillance to target drugs, illegal fishing and transnational crime. Climate & Media Accountability: Pacific editors adopted a Savusavu “loss and damage” media declaration calling for timely access to climate information and stronger government/regional agency accountability. Education Policy: Cabinet endorsed a 10-year Education Sector Strategic Plan (2025/26–2034/35) to improve teaching, access and governance.

Constitution Reform & Elections: PM Sitiveni Rabuka says he can’t guarantee the numbers for the Constitution Amendment Bill’s second reading this week, warning the outcome depends on MPs’ votes. Anti-Corruption Courtroom: In Prof. Biman Prasad’s FICAC trial, counsel Richard Naidu raised that a document submitted was not the original; the court ordered FICAC to verify and provide details before adjournment. Parliament Oversight: Parliament heard Fiji’s Financial Intelligence Unit is producing intelligence products, but there’s no clear measure of how many lead to investigations, prosecutions, or asset recovery. Education Policy: Cabinet endorsed a 10-year Education Sector Strategic Plan (2025/26–2034/35) focused on teacher quality, equity, governance, and skills for jobs. Climate & Disaster Funding: NDMO faces a $105m funding shortfall for disaster and climate resilience, with relocation costs a major pressure. Maritime Security & Safety: Fiji and Australia are ramping up defence collaboration using advanced maritime surveillance to tackle drugs and illegal fishing, while IMO stresses seafarer training and fair treatment as key to safer shipping. Health Services: Low numbers of medical imaging technologists are affecting x-ray services, especially at CWM Hospital. Agriculture Digital Push: Cabinet backed a National E-Agriculture Strategy (2026–2031) to modernise farming services and markets through digital tools. COP31 Build-Up: Fiji and Australia will host a pre-COP31 event in Fiji (Oct 5–8) to shape negotiations ahead of COP31 in Türkiye.

Climate Finance Push at UN: Pacific leaders, led by PIF Chair Surangel Whipps Jr, pressed UN Secretary-General António Guterres to turn climate promises into action, targeting US$500m for the Pacific Resilience Facility by end-2026 and a longer-term US$1.5b goal. Agriculture Tech for Fiji: India’s High Commissioner Suneet Mehta handed Fiji 12 agricultural drones to boost Fiji Sugar Corporation’s sugarcane production, fulfilling Rabuka’s 2025 pledge. Disaster Planning Gaps in Treaty Talks: In Parliament, Fiji’s disaster office raised concerns that proposed Australia security arrangements and treaty wording don’t clearly cover disasters beyond climate, urging civilian-led response protocols and pre-agreed humanitarian corridors. Constitution Bill Moves Forward: Cabinet endorsed positions for the Constitution Bill, with a special parliamentary committee set to review public submissions before further parliamentary steps. Maritime Safety and Welfare: A new Fiji Maritime Union called for stronger seafarer welfare, warning fatigue and poor rest can drive accidents, while IMO urged more women and youth into maritime careers. West Papua Rights at UN: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale backed calls for an independent UN human rights visit to West Papua, while reaffirming respect for Indonesia’s sovereignty. PINA Leadership: Elizabeth Osifelo was elected PINA vice-president, saying she’s humbled and ready to serve Pacific media for the next two years. Local Governance Dispute: TISI Sangam’s election in Nadi was disrupted, with an interim committee appointed to oversee operations.

Disaster & Climate Diplomacy: Fiji’s NDMO says key disaster concerns were missed in Fiji-Australia treaty talks, warning that consultations focused more on the “Vuvale partnership” than the treaty text—pushing for stronger disaster response and humanitarian pillars. Parliament & Constitution: Cabinet backs the Constitution Bill’s next steps, with a special parliamentary committee set to review it and take public submissions, while debate looms over how many Fijians were consulted. Health Infrastructure: Government shifts focus from Valelevu’s $5.35b hospital plan to a staged redevelopment of CWM Hospital to keep services running and spread costs. Public Safety & Regulation: Cabinet endorses a new asbestos safeguards push, including a National Asbestos Profile and training with APHEDA. Water Crisis Response: As dry conditions worsen, water tanks and emergency coordination are ramping up across Northern and Western divisions. Energy & Cost Pressures: EFL faces fuel-cost strain, with renewables targets still driving a long-term transition plan. Women & Online Abuse: Officials warn online abuse is pushing women out of politics, urging parties and platforms to act. Maritime Sector: New maritime union calls for better seafarer welfare and fatigue protections, while IMO urges Fiji to translate maritime policy into safer, more reliable services. Youth in Politics: NFP unveils a young female candidate, pitching youth leadership and real responsibility ahead of the 2026 election.

Constitution & Governance: Cabinet has endorsed sweeping reforms to Fiji’s 2013 Constitution, including a bicameral Parliament (House and Senate), a constituency and mixed-member proportional electoral system, stronger Bill of Rights, expanded protections, and safeguards for customary land and qoliqoli rights—aimed at being tabled in Parliament on Sept 30. iTaukei Consultation Numbers: The GCC says 278 chiefs represented 504,609 iTaukei in CRC consultations, while the Attorney-General’s office stresses the figure doesn’t mean every individual endorsed every part; Opposition says the count leaves questions on how minorities were reflected. Health Infrastructure: Cabinet backed a staged redevelopment of CWM Hospital instead of the $5.35b Valelevu tertiary plan, to keep services running while upgrading oncology and radiotherapy. Security: Fiji launched a Counter Terrorism Strategy 2026–2030 focused on disrupting criminal and financial networks, with officials stressing constitutional, human-rights based safeguards. Climate & Energy: Fiji was selected for the COP31 Climate Implementation Bridge pilot to turn pledges into funded projects, with a focus on renewable power for grid-disconnected Kadavu; separately, India placed in PIF’s Strategic Partner Stream and donated 12 drones for Fiji’s sugarcane. HIV & Meth Emergency: Fiji’s national emergency response continues as officials link the fast-growing HIV crisis to crystal meth use and needle sharing.