Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Commander Major General Jone Kalouniwai has defended the military’s $152.6 million allocation in the 2026-2027 National Budget, urging critics to judge the force by its service to the nation rather than its budget line.
In a public response to the national budget debate, the RFMF acknowledged concerns raised over defence spending, including calls for military funding to be reduced because Fiji is not engaged in conventional warfare.
However, Major General Kalouniwai said those holding such views should instead consider the military’s contribution across the country.
“Not at our budget line, but at our work,” he said, pointing to sailors operating in the Lau Group, engineers constructing rural schools and community halls, soldiers who distributed food rations during the COVID-19 pandemic, peacekeepers serving in some of the world’s most dangerous environments, and cadets preparing for future service.
The Commander stressed that the RFMF has always operated with limited resources and said financial constraints have never prevented personnel from carrying out their duties.
“A reduced budget has never stopped a soldier from serving. It will not stop us now.”
Major General Kalouniwai said while the military supports investment in education, health and social welfare, Fiji also faces challenges including corruption, drug trafficking and organised crime, making strong national institutions essential.
He said reducing the capacity of institutions responding to these threats would have broader consequences for national security and community safety.
The Commander also reaffirmed the values of military service, saying every sailor and soldier takes an oath to serve Fiji and its people, not a government or a budget.
“We are taught from our earliest days in uniform that no soldier is indispensable. You fall today; someone rises tomorrow to take your place. We do not mourn our fallen—we celebrate their courage, honour their sacrifice, and carry their mission forward.”
Major General Kalouniwai concluded by reaffirming the RFMF’s commitment to the country, saying the force would continue to serve Fiji “with everything it has—and everything it is.”
