Our Commitment.
The Attorney-General’s Office in Fiji is steadfast in its dedication to strengthening the Rule of Law, recognizing it as the bedrock of good governance, social security, and economic prosperity. This commitment is not merely a statement but a proactive pursuit to ensure a just, equitable, and stable society for all Fijians.
At its core, strengthening the Rule of Law involves:
- Upholding Constitutional Principles: Ensuring that all laws and government actions align with the 2013 Constitution, which enshrines fundamental human rights and democratic processes.
- Promoting Access to Justice: Expanding legal aid services, digitizing legal processes, and making laws more accessible and comprehensible to every citizen. Initiatives like the online platform for Fiji’s consolidated laws are crucial steps in this direction.
- Ensuring Accountability and Transparency: Actively working to operationalize the Information Act and advocating for codes of conduct for public officials to foster openness and trust in government. This also includes safeguarding institutions like the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) from political interference.
- Modernizing Legal Frameworks: Continuously reviewing and reforming outdated laws to address contemporary challenges such as cybercrime, financial crimes, and the legal implications of climate change. This ensures Fiji’s legal system remains relevant and effective in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
- Supporting an Independent Judiciary: Championing the independence of the judiciary and supporting efforts to enhance its capacity and efficiency to handle the increasing number of court cases, thereby reducing delays and building public confidence.
- Protecting Human Rights: Collaborating with bodies like the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission to investigate and address human rights violations, and engaging in public education to raise awareness about rights and responsibilities.
The Attorney-General’s Office plays a pivotal role as the government’s central legal advisor, providing expert guidance on legislative drafting, legal policy, and regulatory compliance. This comprehensive approach underscores Fiji’s unwavering commitment to a legal system that protects the vulnerable, holds power accountable, and ensures fairness for all, irrespective of status or background. It is through this continuous commitment that Fiji aims to build a peaceful, stable, and prosperous nation.