RFMF Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai says every Fijian’s vote must be protected and the people’s verdict respected, warning that the use of force must never override democracy.**
“Let every Fijian claim their place at the ballot box, knowing their choice will be protected and their verdict respected.”
That was the message from Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai as he reflected on Fiji’s democratic journey ahead of the country’s 56th anniversary of Independence.
Addressing military personnel during the final rehearsal for the Fiji Day Parade at Albert Park in Suva, Maj-Gen Kalouniwai stressed that the authority held by Parliament and the military belonged to the people.
His remarks come as Fiji prepares for another electoral process and considers proposed amendments to the 2013 Constitution, with questions surrounding democracy, the rule of law and public confidence in national institutions remaining part of the national conversation.
Maj-Gen Kalouniwai said Fiji’s independence in 1970 marked a defining moment when the people moved from being governed to governing 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 both Parliament and the RFMF had a responsibility to serve the people, emphasising that neither institution owned the authority entrusted to it.
“That House holds the voice of the people, and this Force holds the strength of the people. Both are held in trust,” he said.
The RFMF commander acknowledged the challenges confronting Fiji, including the rising cost of living, the threat posed by illicit drugs and concerns over public confidence in national institutions.
He urged military personnel to carry out their duties with discipline, humility and obedience to the law, while respecting the democratic process and the will of the people.
Maj-Gen Kalouniwai also reflected on Fiji’s history, warning against the use of military force to undermine the democratic choices of citizens.
“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 underscored the importance of ensuring that the ballot box, rather than the threat or use of force, remains the means through which the people exercise their democratic rights.
He called on personnel to uphold the spirit of independence through service, unity and respect for democratic institutions, reminding them that the RFMF’s strength must always remain in the service of the people.
The address was delivered during the final preparations for the Fiji Day Parade, which marks 56 years since Fiji gained independence on October 10, 1970.
