The Social Democratic Liberal Party has overcome reservations it had about ex-military officers being involved with their current operations. SODELPA leader, Ro Teimumu Kepa admitted questions were initially asked about their role, particularly those who had been part of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) in 2006.

‘’Of course, many of us had our reservations. Having said that, we all want to progress the country. Through their experience, they have some skills, through their training which we haven’t got. Hopefully, they can help us with problems that’s been plaguing us in the past, but they’re not the total answer, ‘’ she said.

The most prominent ex-military member of SODELPA is candidate nominee Samuela Saumatua, a former colonel and Local Housing Minister with the current Government. He resigned from his Cabinet post in June last year, citing personal reasons. Other former military personnel in SODELPA are Sakiusa Raivoce, who now operates an international security companym, and SODELPA president Silivenusi Waqausa.

Ro Teimumu said concerns by other political parties on the participation of these ex-military officers in SODELPA operations were unfounded.

‘’We need as much help as possible to make this country progressive,’’ she said.

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