The Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Land Force Commander (LFC), Colonel Manoa Gadai yesterday assured the Minister for Defence and National Security Inia Seruiratu that they would execute their roles as enshrined in the 2013 Constitution.

Under the 2013 Constitution, the RFMF is mandated to be the guardian of Fiji carrying out the mandate of the people through Fiji’s National Administration.

“It shall be the overall duty of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces to ensure at all times the security, defence and well being of Fiji and all Fijians,” Col Gadai said.

He also updated the minister of the capability of the RFMF during Mr Seruiratu’s visit.

He said the RFMF Commander, Rear Admiral Viliame Naupoto, had agreed that the battalion that pulled out from Lebanon will be attached to LFC and form the Stand By Battalion for peacekeeping duties.

Col Gadai said he was happy to look after this new battalion.

After the briefing the minister witnessed two senior officers’ promoted.

Major Vatimio Leva was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel (Lt-Col) and is now the LFC Chief of Staff.

The other promotion was Major Laisani Kinikini to Lieutenant-Colonel.

She is now the Commanding Officer (CO) Logistic and Support Unit.

Lt-Col Kinikini had looked after the unit before her promotion yesterday.

The minister was accorded a quarter guard of honour both at the RFMF Commander’s Office at Berkley Crescent and at the Stanley Brown Naval Base in Walu Bay.

Edited by Susana Tuilau

Feedback:  maikab@fijisun.com.fj