Statement by Shamima Ali in response to Rusiate Tudravu and Pio Tikoduadua

24 Jun, 2026

When allegations are raised about deaths and abuse involving police officers, military personnel or joint operations, those concerns must be treated with the utmost seriousness and respect. In any democratic society governed by the rule of law, security forces are entrusted with extraordinary powers. With those powers comes an equally extraordinary responsibility to uphold human rights and protect the public. Accountability is the foundation of public trust. Attempts to ridicule, dismiss or trivialise legitimate concerns as “funny” or “only a few incidents” only deepen public anxiety and undermine confidence in our institutions and allows a culture of impunity to thrive. 

Our issue has always been whether the rights and dignity of all people are protected during the course of these joint operations. Independent oversight, transparent investigations and public accountability are not obstacles to effective policing; they are essential safeguards against misconduct.

There is nothing funny about allegations of assault, torture, excessive use of force, three deaths over three months or any violations of human rights. 

The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre calls on all leaders, particularly those entrusted with public authority, to approach these issues with the seriousness, compassion and accountability they deserve.

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