Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander, Major General Jone Kalouniwai stresses that breaking the cycle of military intervention is an absolute imperative for a stable, prosperous, and united Fiji.
While speaking on the military's reconciliation and restoration efforts, the Commander says the RFMF is strengthening its engagement with communities across the country, working to remove any lingering perception of the institution as a force of fear or oppression.
Major General Kalouniwai says they strive instead to reaffirm their role as protectors, partners, and servants of the people.
He acknowledges the concerns, sentiments, and growing impatience expressed by members of the public as the national reconciliation process progresses.
He says the RFMF hears these voices clearly and takes them with the utmost seriousness however, the RFMF will not remain prisoners of its past.
The Commander says instead, they are embracing a pivotal new trajectory - one defined by transparency, accountability, and a renewed partnership with every community across Fiji.
He says this is their solemn pledge for a brighter, more secure future, and every member of the RFMF has committed fully to championing this vital transformation.
Major General Kalouniwai says they recognize the deep currents of historical grievance and the understandable caution that stems from past turmoil.
He adds the pain felt across the communities is real and deeply acknowledged yet, these emotions must not anchor us in the past or hinder our shared journey toward healing, restoration, and authentic national unity.
The Army Commander says the institution carries the weight of its history and they do not shy away from this.
They humbly accept their responsibility to confront the difficult realities of their past actions -times when the RFMF diverged from its true purpose and values.
Major General Kalouniwai says today, a renewed drive fuels their mission : to restore integrity, honour, and trust in the RFMF for the benefit of all Fijians.
He stresses that their path of reconciliation is not an attempt to avoid accountability nor to circumvent any legal processes, rather, it is a deliberate, public acknowledgment of past actions - an essential first step toward rebuilding the sacred trust of the people they are mandated to protect.
Major General Kalouniwai says as part of this transformation, the RFMF reaffirms its resolute and principled commitment to uphold civilian supremacy.
He says this is the non-negotiable foundation of our democracy and the bedrock upon which enduring public confidence is built.
He further says the healing of our national wounds requires courage, honesty, and inclusive dialogue.
The RFMF says through a robust Reconciliation and Restoration Program, the institution stands ready to confront the legacy of past events and move beyond denial toward meaningful national renewal.
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