No permit will be issued to any group or applicant for gatherings related to the Israel and Gaza situation due to security reasons.

This was the word from Assistant Commissioner of Police – Operations Livai Driu.

On Wednesday night, the NGO Coalition on Human Rights raised concerns after their application for a march permit was denied by the Fiji Police Force.

The NGO said the march was to call for peace, humanitarian aid and an end to the genocide.

It also questioned how Christian zionists could openly gather in a public place outside Parliament, waving the Israeli flag without a permit.

ACP Driu said Police had been alerted of gatherings organised by the Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ Fiji Branch), a subject of a social media post stating that approval had been given.

“While there was no mention of the approval being given by Police, understandably public perception perceived the authorisation was from Police,” ACP Driu said.

“However, we wish to clarify that the Fiji Police Force did not approve a permit, but have since confirmed that approval was referring to the use of the meeting venue, granted by the venue management.

“The Acting Commissioner (of Police) Juki Fong Chew had also directed the matter be investigated, where it has been established that the ICEJ Fiji Branch, as part of their two-year, monthly prayer vigils held since 2022, had organised a vigil for members of the church to pray over the nation and other prayer needs shared.”

ACP Driu said the Fiji Police Force’s priority remained the maintenance of law and order and the safety of all Fijians.

“The status quo will remain with regard to any application to gather for the Israel and Gaza situation as we do not want to risk the peace and security of our community.”

Feedback: inoke.rabonu@fijisun.com.fj