Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander Rear Admiral Viliame Naupoto has reminded his officers at the Sukanaivalu Barracks in Labasa to be prepared for two major events this year.

He made the remarks during his first visit to the Barracks for 2018.

Enroute to attend the prefect induction at one of the secondary schools on Taveuni Island today, Rear Admiral Naupoto said that they needed to lift their operations especially for the first half of the year.

“The two events are the 2018 General Election and the 40th anniversary of our participation in the UN peace keeping mission,” Rear Admiral Naupoto said.

“These are top of our operation out of everything else that we are doing.

“Our cards are okay and we know where the polling stations are.

“One of the most important decisions that a citizen can make or say yes is to choose who will run the Government.

“As for the two events we need to be prepared as a force,” he said.

He said that the Fiji Police Force had requested the military to be ready and assist them if anything bad happened.

“In that regard prevention is better, we are asking people to be calm.

“The main thing is stability in truth.

“The rumors that are spread create anxiety as election draws near.

“Therefore, we must be ready at all times and I have given assurance to the members of the public that we should never ever allow again separation or disturbance in our country. That is the bottom line.

“Hopefully common sense will prevail.

“People will go for the election in a peaceful atmosphere.”

Meanwhile, Rear Admiral Naupoto was surprised to see his birthday cake prepared by the officers. He is 57.

He also wished his officers happy New Year, shared encouraging messages and told them of the plan for this year.

Edited by Mohammed Zulfikar

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