Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua issued a stern warning to individuals attempting to manipulate the military for their own purposes during his speech at the National Federation Party (NFP) annual convention in Sigatoka. Tikoduadua praised the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) for its role in upholding national security but acknowledged the military’s involvement in past political turmoil.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, stating that the current Coalition Government has lasted nearly two years, a notable achievement given the historical tendency for military coups in Fiji. Tikoduadua expressed confidence in the stability of the Coalition and highlighted the efforts made to foster trust between the government and the military.
The minister reassured the public, particularly the Indo-Fijian community, that the relationship between the RFMF and the Coalition Government is strong and crucial for Fiji’s future. He urged those seeking to impose their political influence on the military to reconsider, stating that such attempts would not be successful. Tikoduadua encouraged aspiring politicians to rely on their own merits instead.