THE Republic of Fiji Military Forces is now focused on transformation. It has vowed that its transformation into a professional, democratic institution is permanent. That is a pretty bold and encouraging statement from RFMF Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai.
Speaking at the passing-out parade for 145 new recruits at the Force Training Group in Nasinu yesterday, the Army Commander said the military’s strength was measured by integrity and commitment to serving Fiji.
We say that is bold given the army’s history of involvement in military coups led by Sitiveni Rabuka in 1987 and former PM Voreqe Bainimarama in 2006. The overflow of weapons from the military armoury that ended up in the Parliamentary Complex in Veiuto during George Speight’s coup in 2000 somehow connected the army there as well.
The commander talks about integrity and commitment. They are powerful references, embracing honesty, transparency, ethics, trust and respect.
So, taking this step is going to attract attention. Understandably, there would be sceptics who harbour uncertainty and doubt. In the greater scheme of things, the direction under Maj Gen Ro Jone is very reassuring.
The challenge now is going to be on how much the powers that be are willing to stay on course.
That will mean adhering to the rule of law and upholding the values that raised the institution’s profile and carried the pride and sacrifice of dedicated soldiers.
People will have views of the military and its involvement in our politics. They will reflect on allegations of abuse of power involving the military.
Some citizens were taken up to the camp and treated badly. Quite a few Fijians live with horrific tales of their experiences.
So, it makes sense that change, while inevitable, will need to be consistently driven through and maintained.
Maj Gen Ro Jone said the RFMF had deliberately chosen a new character after decades of political intervention.
In a powerful message, he said the RFMF had instructed every soldier during the December 2022 General Election to honour democracy, regardless of the outcome. He said this broke three decades in which the barracks’ shadow fell over the ballot box and was now the standard for recruits.
He acknowledged the November 2, 2000 mutiny, suggesting the RFMF had confronted its darkest day rather than burying it.
Reconciliation, he said, represented a permanent change of course.
We say that is the direction the army must take. Efforts to fight the coup culture must be promoted and supported. The army has its place. The law has an important place in governance and people must have confidence to help shape our nation. Democracy, good governance, peace and security must be valued and any change in governance must be by the will of the people. We should all be active participants. We must reject the coup culture and place value on democracy, good governance, peace and security. This is why the military must remain apolitical, uphold the law and stay the course. Maybe then, we can look forward to a future brimming with peace, resilience and confidence.
