Fiji Police Force says anyone and everyone will need to have a permit to conduct meetings in public places that will discuss issues of national interest.
Chief Operations Officer ACP Rusiate Tudravu says this even applies to those in the government.
Police Chief of Operations making it clear that no one is above the law when it comes to organizing any public meeting.
“If they go as a political party, but if that is a government sanctioned event, we expect order to be maintained. But even if government ministers when they go out as FijiFirst, I can confirm to you that they apply ( for the permit) . I normally discuss this with Commissioner and the Division Police Commander on the issue of permit,” ACP Tudravu said.
ACP Tudravu says the permit is not a restriction but a guidance to maintain law and order.
He adds people are having misconceptions about the need for permits.
“Because of the actions taken by the Fiji Police Force lately, it has come out big. We receive applications every day, every week. People are doing that. But just because of this (the recent incidents) , people have sensationalized it. It has been take out of proportion. But if people know that they are meeting in a public place, they should apply”
Applications for permit must be done 7 days prior to the proposed event.
” If you are meeting more than 3 people in a public place, discussing matters of national interest, that requires a permit. Also procession on the road, 5 or more vehicles, you need to have a permit. This is just to provide safety and security in the public place”
ACP Tudravu says all circumstances are thoroughly considered before granting permits.