The Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, has urged the Force’s senior leadership to embrace open, frank and candid communication, saying effective dialogue is critical to maintaining a strong and professional military.
Speaking at the opening of the RFMF Veiliutaki Framework Lead Organization Group Workshop at Volivoli Beach Resort yesterday, Maj Gen Kalouniwai said decisions made by the Force’s senior leaders directly shape every unit of the military and reinforce the confidence the people of Fiji place in the RFMF.
He stressed that poor communication has historically been a greater cause of military failure than shortages of equipment or personnel.
“No army has ever failed for want of equipment or numbers half as often as it has failed for want of communication among its leaders,” he said.
The Commander encouraged senior officers to openly discuss issues relating to operational readiness, logistics, training, discipline and troop morale before they escalate into larger problems.
He assured officers that anyone raising concerns in good faith would not face retribution, urging leaders to foster a culture of honesty and accountability.
Maj Gen Kalouniwai also acknowledged Fiji’s evolving national landscape, saying the country is navigating constitutional debate, fiscal constraints and increased public scrutiny of institutions.
He said the RFMF must respond by becoming “the professional and modern force that the nation deserves.”
“If we model integrity, forthrightness, and the courage to be corrected, we will build a Force capable of adapting to whatever this decade in Fiji’s history asks of it,” he said.
The Commander concluded by calling on members of the Lead Organization Group to embrace honest dialogue, respectful disagreement and collective responsibility as they guide the future direction of the RFMF.
The workshop, facilitated by the Institute for Leader Development of the New Zealand Defence Force and the RFMF Veiliutaki Framework team, provides senior military leaders with an opportunity to discuss strategic priorities, strengthen institutional coordination and ensure the Force remains prepared to meet its constitutional responsibilities.
