Convicted 2000 coup participant Jo Nata has praised Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, describing him as the leader Fiji needed during one of the country’s most critical political transitions.
In his submission to the Constitution Review Commission, Nata said the nation owed the Commander “a deep debt of gratitude” for his leadership following the 2022 General Election.
“This nation owes him a deep debt of gratitude. For such a man was present for just such a time as this.”
Nata said Kalouniwai demonstrated exceptional courage by resisting pressure during the early days of the Coalition Government, arguing that a different decision could have plunged Fiji back into political instability.
“A lesser man would have yielded. That he did not, that he held aloft, held his own, was grit, courage, fortitude and sanity.”
Nata said Kalouniwai’s resolve helped alter the course of Fiji’s history.
“The course of history of our troubled nation would have been further down that dark road we are starting to emerge out from.”
He added that many Fijians would welcome the Commander’s continued leadership.
“I fear no contradiction to say that there would be a national sigh of relief at the news of his reappointment to the RFMF for the next five years.”
Nata also linked his praise to the Commander’s recent submission to the Constitution Review Commission calling for the removal of constitutional immunity provisions.
He said the RFMF’s position had changed the national conversation on accountability and should carry significant weight.
“I welcome the submission of the Commander of the RFMF calling for the removal of the immunity provision to stop the culture of impunity. This is significant in the conversation about immunity, and his position should be given serious consideration.”
Nata said the Commander’s stance strengthened calls for constitutional reform aimed at ending Fiji’s coup culture and reinforcing democratic governance.
