The Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, has emphasized the military’s dedication to democracy, cautioning that impatience and a lack of respect for established processes can lead to turmoil in Fiji. Speaking at the End of Year Parade, he highlighted the military’s involvement during the December 2022 general elections, where the Force upheld the people’s choice while maintaining political neutrality.
For the first time in over thirty years, the RFMF refrained from engaging in political discussions in the media or public forums, reaffirming its allegiance to the rule of law and democratic values. Major-General Kalouniwai recognized the rising public frustration for immediate results in governance, yet he warned against allowing such impatience to undermine trust in democratic systems.
He reminded troops of the historical implications of haste, recalling how impatience played a role in Fiji’s significant political upheavals in 1987, 2000, and 2006. In contrast, he noted that patience and adherence to established procedures allowed the RFMF to exhibit professionalism during the tumultuous events of 2022 and maintain stability over the last four years.
The Commander reiterated the military’s commitment to its constitutional obligations despite escalating public expectations and ongoing national challenges. He highlighted that amidst global uncertainties, tangible progress can be achieved when institutions honor their boundaries, uphold democracy, and act with both discipline and restraint. This steadfast approach strengthens the foundations of governance and fosters a hopeful environment for Fiji’s future.
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