Members of the public in and around Suva are advised not to be alarmed by loud sounds of gunfire and artillery as the Republic of Fiji Military Forces will begin preparations for the 2026 Fiji Day celebrations tomorrow at Albert Park in Suva.
RFMF says that as part of the rehearsals, RFMF personnel will conduct ceremonial firing using blank ammunition, including small arms firing and artillery firing using blank rounds.
They say that members of the public may hear loud and repeated sounds of gunfire and artillery during the rehearsal period. However, the sounds are part of the parade preparations and do not indicate an emergency or live-fire exercise.
RFMF says the ceremonial firing will form part of the official Fiji Day Parade, which will be held this Saturday, 10th October 2026, as Fiji commemorates its 56th Independence Anniversary.
The RFMF has urged members of the public to remain calm and not be alarmed by the sounds.
The military will continue to coordinate with relevant authorities to ensure the rehearsals and parade are conducted safely and in accordance with established procedures.
Fiji Day celebrations are expected to bring together communities across the country as the nation marks another year of independence.
