RFMF Commander backs senior officer's drug remarks despite breach of protocol

Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, has thrown his support behind Brigadier-General Manoa Gadai’s recent comments on Fiji’s drug crisis.

He confirmed, however, that the senior officer crossed a line in the chain of command.

Brigadier-General Gadai had earlier expressed his interest via a chain of emails to lead a proposed bureau from the RFMF Blackrock Camp in Nadi, where he is stationed, following allegations of police officers’ involvement in the illegal drug trade.

Speaking at the End of Year Parade at the Force Training Ground today, Major-General Kalouniwai acknowledged Brigadier-General Gadai’s remarks last week about the growing drug problem, particularly in Nadi, saying they reflected “the cry of the silent majority.”

In a statement published on Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka's Facebook page tonight, the Commander said: “Though he (Brigadier-General Gadai) crossed the line that protects our hierarchical order of command, we both agreed that his message speaks to the reality of what is happening around us today.

“It represents the truth. It represents every concerned father, mother, brother and sister. It represents every citizen of this country. It is the cry of the silent majority who wait upon and hope for a solution to a problem that is rapidly killing our nation. It represents our greatest fear — it is existential in nature as we see its effects on our families, our communities and our people.”

Major-General Kalouniwai confirmed Brigadier-General Gadai was verbally reprimanded and has since apologised, but stressed the substance of his warning was valid.

“...While we empathise with Brigadier-General Gadai, breaking the chain of command is one of the greatest sins within any military institution. I have given Brigadier-General Gadai the opportunity to submit his application through the proper process and have discussed the issue with our Honourable Minister,” Major-General Kalouniwai said.