Independent Commission of Investigations

Summary

Three commissioners appointed by the Governor-General on recommendation of the Prime Minister after consultation with the Leader of the Opposition (s. 4(4)). Two must be qualified for or have held high judicial office; one must be a chartered accountant (s. 4(4)). No current or former Security Force members may be appointed (First Schedule, para. 2(1)(d)). Term: five years, renewable once (First Schedule, para. 1(1)). Removal only for inability, incompetence, or misbehaviour (First Schedule, para. 3). Commission is a body corporate independent of direction or control of any person (s. 6(2)). Has powers of a Justice of the Court to summon and compel attendance of witnesses, compel production of documents, examine witnesses under oath, and retain evidence (s. 22). On a magistrate's warrant, may access all records, documents, and premises (s. 5(5)). Jurisdiction covers murder/manslaughter by officers, use-of-force incidents, abuse of prisoners, corruption, drug trafficking, and other named offences (s. 3(2)). Takes over ongoing investigations from Security Forces (s. 21). Submits recommendations to DPP (s. 27); recommendations on recruitment, discipline, and conditions of service must be complied with (s. 32). Annual reports to Parliament required by 30 September each year (s. 31). Funds appropriated by Parliament (s. 11). As of May 2026, not yet fully operational — appointments pending.