Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua says Fiji's military must never again become involved in politics, stressing that its role is to serve the people and protect democracy, not govern the country.
While supporting the 2026/2027 National Budget in Parliament, Tikoduadua says Fiji's history has shown that military intervention in politics weakens democratic institutions, damages economic confidence, divides communities and erodes public trust.
He says the Coalition Government has chosen to confront that history rather than ignore it, emphasising that professional soldiers protect the constitutional system through which the people choose their leaders.
The Minister says one of the Government's biggest achievements has been restoring defence to its proper place in a constitutional democracy by ensuring the military remains under lawful civilian control.
Insert: Tikoduadua on Protecting the Law 14th July 26
Tikoduadua says the Government has completed the National Security and Defence Review and adopted the National Security Strategy 2025-2029, which places the safety and wellbeing of Fijians at the centre of national security.
He says national security is not only about the military or police, but also about protecting democracy, strengthening the economy, safeguarding the environment, promoting social cohesion and maintaining public confidence in institutions.
He says the Fiji Police Force will continue to be the country's primary law enforcement agency, while the Republic of Fiji Military Forces will only provide support when lawfully authorised.
Tikoduadua says the Government has also strengthened efforts to combat drug trafficking, organised crime and other transnational threats by improving coordination between agencies and enhancing maritime surveillance across Fiji's 1.3 million square kilometre Exclusive Economic Zone.
He says work is also underway to review laws governing the RFMF, develop Fiji's first National Peacekeeping Strategy, advance the Maritime Security Strategy, strengthen search and rescue capabilities and prepare a Defence Cyber Security Strategy.
The Minister says Fiji's peacekeepers continue to earn international respect through more than four decades of service in some of the world's most challenging environments.
He also highlighted progress in advancing the Women, Peace and Security agenda by identifying barriers faced by women in the RFMF and Fiji Police Force and creating greater opportunities for leadership and participation.
Tikoduadua says veteran welfare remains a priority, with the Government continuing to review support arrangements for former servicemen and women and recognising the sacrifices made by them and their families.
He says the Coalition Government's most significant achievement has been placing democracy, accountability, human rights and the rule of law at the centre of Fiji's national security policy.
Tikoduadua adds that Fiji's lasting security will depend on strong institutions that remain accountable to the people, regardless of who is in government.
