THE newly-proposed Office of National Security Assessments (ONSA) will not wield command power over the military or the police, says Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
In an interview on The Fiji Times A Conversation with the PM column, Mr Rabuka said ONSA would serve as a strategic intelligence and advisory hub to improve coordination and tackle modern threats.
“The ONSA is being created to address coordination gaps and emerging security challenges,” Mr Rabuka said.
“It will act as an intelligence and advisory hub, supporting, not duplicating, the work of the Ministry of Defence and Police.
“It will have no command authority over the military or police, but it will enhance situational awareness and strategic foresight.”
The clarification comes amid public interest on how the new security office would interact with existing agencies such as the Ministry of Defence and the Fiji Police Force, and whether its establishment risks overlapping or undermining current command structures.
Mr Rabuka stressed the role of the soon-to-be-appointed national security adviser, who will head the office, would be strictly advisory.
“The office will provide advice directly to the prime minister and the Government of occurrences that impact national security and integrity on a regular and ongoing basis.
“The establishment of the office of the National Security Advisor is an important step to enhance the country’s national security and defence capabilities.”
He added the adviser would be handpicked by the Prime Minister.
“The office shall comprise the national security adviser, who shall be appointed by the Prime Minister.
“We are seeking a candidate with integrity, national interest at heart and deep understanding of modern security challenges.”
