The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) transcends the perception of merely being characterized by “the uniform they wear and the guns they carry,” according to Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai. In a recent interview on The Lens@177, he highlighted several reasons for the RFMF’s ongoing relevance.
Kalouniwai pointed out that the RFMF provides employment for more than 5,000 personnel. He emphasized that the changing dynamics of international, regional, and national landscapes, coupled with geopolitics, create situations where the RFMF’s assistance is necessary.
He reiterated the organization’s involvement during the COVID-19 pandemic, stating that although it was not their primary responsibility, the RFMF played a significant role in addressing the crisis. “It’s just a matter of people understanding how the RFMF can actually get involved with these specific roles,” he said.
Kalouniwai acknowledged that the historical stigma from military coups has sometimes obscured the multifaceted role of the RFMF in security matters. When questioned about the possibility of a reduction in personnel following the new National Defence and Safety Review, he recognized the difficulty of the question but also emphasized the RFMF’s obligation to adhere to government recommendations.
He explained that there is a chance for him, as the Commander of the RFMF, to advocate for the current personnel levels, arguing the importance of maintaining the organization’s strength. Kalouniwai pointed out ongoing discussions about the productivity of the RFMF, sharing that during a recent meeting, praises were directed at the RFMF’s contributions to peacekeeping operations in Tonga.
Additionally, the RFMF’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief roles in the region have also been acknowledged. Kalouniwai noted that while many assess productivity in monetary terms, the RFMF operates differently, suggesting a need for more officers to fulfill its responsibilities to the nation.