The Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) has announced that a military personnel has been placed on leave amid serious allegations of involvement with drug syndicates that purportedly received sensitive information concerning military plans and operations. This decision comes in response to a social media post that implicated an RFMF mobile number in the drug trade.
In a statement shared on the social media account of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, the Commander confirmed that the suspected mobile device has been confiscated. The involved individual has been questioned and will remain on leave while an independent investigation takes place.
Emphasizing the importance of internal discipline and accountability, the Commander issued a strong warning to all RFMF members that involvement in illegal activities will be dealt with strictly. He reiterated that the military must adhere to legal standards and refrain from any involvement in illicit activities.
Furthermore, he took this opportunity to affirm the RFMF’s commitment to upholding democratic values. He highlighted their respectful engagement during the December 2022 elections, during which the military chose to honor the people’s will, breaking a 30-year trend of political interference in public affairs.
Major-General Kalouniwai also reflected on the RFMF’s ongoing reconciliation efforts, which aim to address past grievances and rebuild trust within the community. He acknowledged that while these reconciliation attempts are earnest, they may sometimes be misunderstood or overshadowed by negative narratives that reduce their significance.
The RFMF’s proactive approach underscores its dedication to maintaining integrity and accountability, reinforcing the organization’s aim to operate transparently and uphold democratic ideals throughout contentious situations. This commitment also reflects a hopeful transition within the military, aiming to foster a culture of respect and responsibility as it moves forward.