Fijian Opposition parliamentarian Pio Tikoduadua has called for a national dialogue in relation to the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ role under Section 131 (2) of the 2013 Constitution.
Section 131 (2) says “It shall be the overall responsibility of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces to ensure at all times the security, defence and wellbeing of Fiji and all Fijians”.
Mr Tikoduadua said he was part of a parliamentary committee that toured the Black Opposition Rock facility in Nadi.
He said the committee was briefed by Deputy RFMF Commander Commodore Humphrey Tawake and asked critical questions about him.
“I was impressed by his forthrightness,” Mr Tikoduadua told Parliament.
“He assured the committee that the RFMF is a professional force and understands that it is subservient to the people.
“I am reassured by the deputy commander’s commitment and wish both him and the commander RFMF all the best during the tenure of their command.”
Mr Tikoduadua said he was calling for a national dialogue on the RFMF’s role to clarify public misconceptions.
“I am raising this point because many Fijians perceive these constitutional provisions as legitimacy for RFMF to intervene freely in the governance of the State.”
