RFMF embarks on improving competency, building leadership, and adherence to the rule of law

RFMF Chief of Staff Brigadier General Sapenafa Motufaga says the RFMF is embarking on building their people along the lines of improving competency, building leadership, and adherence to the rule of law.

While responding to a question from Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence member Ratu Isikeli Tuiwailevu on what has been done by the RFMF to change public perception, Motufaga says 2021 was a transition period for the RFMF where the RFMF leadership changed.

He says from 2022, the new leadership established and implemented a new strategic plan to take the RFMF forward in the absence of a comprehensive national security strategy.

Motufaga says one of the aims of the new strategic plan beyond 2022 was to strengthen the professionalism of the RFMF.

When questioned by Ratu Isikeli on the process involved if there are allegations of misconduct or breaches of protocol, Motufaga says RFMF has its regulations, which are currently being reviewed and are before the government for endorsement.

He says they do not have a whistle-blower policy because their system works along a chain of command.

When asked by Committee member Rinesh Sharma if the RFMF needs a whistle-blower policy going forward, the RFMF Chief of Staff says they will have to consult with their legal team on this.