“Fiji, where the gun overrules the ballot, is no independence at all.”
That was the message from Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai as he called on military personnel to uphold democracy, respect the rule of law and protect the will of the people.
Speaking during the final rehearsal for the Fiji Day Parade at Albert Park in Suva yesterday, Maj-Gen Kalouniwai reflected on the country’s history and the responsibility of institutions entrusted with serving its people.
“Our history has taught us, sometimes painfully, that a Fiji where the gun overrules the ballot is no independence at all,” he said.
His remarks come as Fiji prepares for another electoral process and considers proposed amendments to the 2013 Constitution, amid concerns over public confidence in national institutions.
Reflecting on Fiji’s 56 years of independence, Maj-Gen Kalouniwai said the country’s independence in 1970
marked the beginning of a promise that Fijians would govern themselves.
“Fifty-six years ago our noble banner blue rose over a people who had been governed, and they became a people who would govern themselves. That promise still stands behind us today in the Parliament of
Fiji,” he said.
He said Parliament and the RFMF each had a responsibility to serve the people, stressing that the authority held by both institutions was a public trust.
“That House holds the voice of the people, and this Force holds the strength of the people. Both are held in trust,” he said.
Maj-Gen Kalouniwai acknowledged several challenges facing the country, including the rising cost of living, the threat of illicit drugs and concerns about public confidence in national institutions.
He urged military personnel to perform their duties with discipline and humility, obey the law and respect the democratic process.
The RFMF commander also emphasised the importance of protecting every citizen’s right to participate in elections and ensuring the outcome reflected the people’s choice.
“Let every Fijian claim their place at the ballot box, knowing their choice will be protected and their verdict respected,” he said.
