A new policy announced yesterday by the Acting Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) must be commended.

As the country joins the international campaign on the elimination of violence against women and children, the RFMF is leading the charge with its “…zero tolerance on violence against women”.

It also sets a strong example for other institutions to follow.

When announcing the new policy yesterday Rear Admiral Viliame Naupoto said: “Zero tolerance policy means that if you commit an offence related to violence or you punch your wife, or your girlfriend, this applies across the board, you will be terminated from the force.”

Surely this bold announcement will go well not only for the women and children of the RFMF, but Fiji as a whole.

The announcement leaves no option available for compromise, but in the long run the future of the RFMF families and the nation is bound to be wholesome and peaceful.

As a nation our Prime Minister, a former military commander himself, has publicly stated many times that it was time we took more preventative measures in our communities to protect our most vulnerable – our women and children – from violence.

Addressing the thousands who turned up at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori on Thursday, Mr Bainimarama said the strong must look out for those who are weaker and less powerful, not abuse and exploit them.

But violence against our women and children is now almost a norm in our daily news. Day in and day out we hear and read of the various forms of abuse on our vulnerable women and children – inside our homes, villages, at work, etc.

The public must take the stand together with the RFMF on this new policy and shoulder the responsibility to address the social stigma.

Having a happy family as the Acting Commander says will also have a positive reflection on the output of their performance at work.

The men in green were reminded that it is one of their obligations as heads of families to prevent and protect their women and children from all forms of violence.

The State on the other hand has a responsibility to uphold standards of due diligence and take steps to fulfil their responsibility to protect individuals from human rights abuses. Yet such violence is often ignored and rarely punished. Too often no one is held accountable for these crimes.

With your help, we can hold states and perpetrators responsible and put an end to this cycle of violence against women.

A priest said – “Women deserve to be treated as equals and with the upmost respect. Without women where would we all we today?”

A Christian preacher said – “Street harassment, sexual violence, sexual harassment, gender-based violence and racism, are all acts committed by a person who in fact has no self respect. Respect yourself by respecting others.”

Surely other institutions should follow the RFMF new policy. It will lead to see all Fijians living happily and harmoniously.

Feedback:  maikab@fijisun.com.fj