The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability to taxpayers and the government. Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai stated in an interview last week that significant advancements have been made in these areas.
Attributing the importance of accountability to the public, he said, “At the end of the day, we are accountable to the taxpayers, the Government, and to the public at large.” Kalouniwai acknowledged that the organization has previously operated in a closed environment but emphasized that they are now aiming to engage more openly with the public.
When questioned about the potential lack of transparency from previous commanders, Kalouniwai refrained from using the term “failed.” He noted that various circumstances may have influenced their ability or willingness to prioritize transparency.
He described leadership within the RFMF as requiring a balance between being a leader who navigates complex situations and a commander who adheres strictly to the rules. “Leaders work in the grey. They try to compromise, while commanders stick to clear definitions of right and wrong. Understanding how to move between these roles is crucial,” he explained.
Upon his appointment in September 2021, Kalouniwai set out to form a team by December to initiate a five-year strategic plan, aiming to establish clear direction and objectives for the RFMF. He emphasized that trust is foundational within the organization, contributing to a positive command climate.
Kalouniwai described the RFMF’s approach to leadership as decentralized, with responsibilities distributed to various operational commanders, allowing him to focus on strategic issues without micromanaging.