The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Land Forces used their 2nd Quarter Parade on Friday, May 1 to issue a renewed and pointed pledge to confront narcotics and organised crime, with Commander Land Forces Brigadier General Onisivoro Covunisaqa saying the military has chosen to “rise and defend Fiji’s future” rather than remain passive as criminal networks expand.
Speaking to assembled troops, Brig-Gen Covunisaqa framed the anti-drugs campaign as a long-term national imperative rather than a series of short-lived operations. He reinforced the RFMF’s commitment to uphold the Constitution while confronting narcotics and organised crime, and highlighted discipline, integrity and operational readiness as the service’s core pillars. He also acknowledged the sacrifices made by service families and communities, saying the campaign is aimed at protecting homes, schools and future generations.
In a stern warning to members of the force, Brig-Gen Covunisaqa said there would be zero tolerance for divided loyalties and any collusion with criminal elements would be dealt with decisively. He added that the military would actively pursue individuals involved in drug-related activities and stressed that RFMF operations would remain lawful, sustained and focused on safeguarding Fiji’s sovereignty and people.
The parade address is the latest public reiteration of security forces’ resolve as Fiji intensifies its response to an increasingly visible drug threat. In recent months the government has moved to bolster law enforcement capacity, including the launch of recruitment for a new Counter Narcotics Bureau in late February, and high-profile incidents have underscored the stakes — notably the death of 25-year-old Constable Peniasi Racagi in February, which prompted renewed calls for accountability and action from policing officials.
Brig-Gen Covunisaqa’s comments also underline the RFMF’s readiness to play a sustained role alongside other agencies. While the military does not replace police functions, his emphasis on lawful conduct and constitutional duty appears aimed at reassuring the public and clarifying the RFMF’s stance amid concerns about potential overreach or misconduct. Previous cases in Fiji — including arrests and charges against police officers over methamphetamine-related offences last year — have kept scrutiny on how security institutions manage internal discipline while targeting organised crime.
The May 1 parade reaffirmation signals that, for the RFMF leadership, the fight against drugs is a central and enduring aspect of national security strategy. By publicly warning both criminal networks and any internal collaborators, Brig-Gen Covunisaqa sought to set clear expectations for conduct within the ranks as joint efforts with police and newly formed units such as the Counter Narcotics Bureau continue.