The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission is calling on the Fiji Police Force to provide a clear, written explanation of the reasons for refusing the permit for a march scheduled for today in Vuda, concerning the proposed waste-to-energy plants.
Commission Director Loukinikini Lewaravu says their reason should include how the decision meets the standards of necessity and proportionality.
She is also calling on the Police to reconsider the decision in line with Fiji’s constitutional and international human rights commitments and where genuine public safety or other lawful concerns exist, engage with the organisers to explore possible adjustments (e.g., route changes or timing) rather than imposing a complete denial.
Lewaravu says they recognise the important role the Fiji Police Force plays in maintaining public safety and order and at the same time, they remind all duty bearers—including Government and law enforcement authorities of Fiji’s human rights obligations.
She say under Fiji’s 2013 Constitution and ratified international Human Rights treaties such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the Government and law enforcement have the responsibility to respect, protect, and fulfill human rights.
She says respect means that authorities must not arbitrarily block or interfere with the peaceful expression of community views.
The Commission Director says in this context, a permit denial should never be automatic or based on disapproval of the message being voiced.
She says the State has a duty to create a safe environment for people to exercise their rights, including by facilitating peaceful assemblies and shielding participants from unlawful harassment or
disruption and denying a permit outright may, in some cases, fail to protect the right to assembly.
Lewaravu says the Government should take positive steps to enable communities to be heard, such as providing clear, fair, and transparent permit processes, offering alternative venues or times if genuine safety concerns exist, and explaining decisions in a way that allows for review or appeal.
She says any restriction on the rights to assemble and express views must be lawful, necessary, proportionate, and non‑discriminatory.
The Commission Director says all communities have the right to speak out on developments that may affect their health, environment, and the wellbeing of their children.
She stresses a peaceful march is a lawful and constructive way to exercise that right.
Lewaravu is also reminding members of the public that exercising the right to peaceful assembly comes with the responsibility to do so without violence, intimidation, or damage to property.
She adds the Commission stands ready to offer guidance and support to both the authorities and the community to help ensure that human rights are respected, protected, and fulfilled in practice.
