The Fijian government has definitively ruled out the prospect of a military-led approach to drug enforcement, emphasizing that the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) will not take over the duties of the police but can assist within strict legal parameters. Defence and Veteran Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua underscored the seriousness of the illicit drug threat but insisted that the response must remain lawful and under civilian authority.
Tikoduadua stated, “Drug investigations and enforcement operations must remain led by the Fiji Police Force.” He stressed that while inter-agency cooperation is crucial, any military involvement would be limited to a support role with proper legal authorization. If support from the RFMF is sought, it would be structured to ensure that the police retain full control over enforcement actions such as searches, arrests, and prosecutions. Military support would be confined to non-law-enforcement tasks, including logistics, transport, and planning.
The Minister highlighted the importance of maintaining a separation between military functions and civilian policing as a fundamental principle of the rule of law, essential for maintaining public confidence. Tikoduadua pointed out that policing involves specialized statutory powers that operate within a civilian framework, and there are existing provisions under the Police Act to enhance policing capacity without resorting to military measures.
As part of a broader strategy, Tikoduadua mentioned that drug enforcement strategies fall under the remit of the Minister for Policing. The government is guided by the National Countering Illicit Narcotics Strategy 2023-2028, which promotes a collaborative approach among various governmental and civic agencies, focusing on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and strengthened border controls.
The government’s position is clear on the matter: responses to illicit drugs must be firm, lawful, and led by civilian authorities. The Fiji Police Force remains the lead agency, with the RFMF positioned solely to assist under strictly defined roles and legal frameworks.
In a notable remark, Major General Jone Kalouniwai, Commander of the RFMF, acknowledged the complexities of the drug problem, calling it an existential threat that the police may struggle to tackle alone. He emphasized the need for a united effort from society and government, indicating that the RFMF is prepared to assist where necessary.
This stance from the government is a hopeful indication of a collaborative and structured approach to addressing drug-related issues in Fiji, aimed not only at maintaining order but also preserving public confidence in the rule of law.
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