RFMF Commander credits public backing for second term, vows continuity

Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai says strong public support influenced his decision to accept another five-year term.

He pledged to maintain stability and continue reforms in the military over the next five years.

Speaking after the announcement of his reappointment yesterday, Major-General Kalouniwai said he had been given time to consider whether he wanted to continue in the role but was ultimately encouraged by the overwhelming backing he received from ordinary Fijians.

He said messages of support through social media, emails and other platforms reflected the high expectations the public had of the military's leadership.

"I haven't met many of the people who have sent messages, but it shows there is a huge expectation from where we are sitting," he said.

"The challenge for us is to ensure we meet those expectations."

Major-General Kalouniwai said the military had established a benchmark over the past five years and his focus would now be on building on that progress rather than changing course.

He said continuity would remain the cornerstone of his leadership, with efforts already underway to review the organisation to improve its effectiveness and strengthen its role in serving Fiji.

"We will continue with what we are doing and, as much as possible, improve the way we do things," he said.

"There are many things we are looking at within the organisation that will make the RFMF a much better institution while fulfilling the responsibility we have to Fiji."

He added that his priority was to ensure ongoing reforms were completed while providing stability for officers serving within the force.

The announcement of his reappointment was met with widespread public support on social media.

Among those commenting on the Fiji Sun Facebook page, Imanueli Mat Qereqeretabua described Major-General Kalouniwai as "a humble and visionary leader", while Rohit Chandra said he deserved another tenure, praising what he described as his "steadfast" leadership.

Semisi Natava said: “Ratu Jone Kalouniwai deserves this extension based on his performance. Thank you very much, Sir, for your humility and loyal service. Congratulations!”

In a Facebook post yesterday afternoon, Defence and Veterans Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua confirmed his support for the reappointment of Major-General Kalouniwai.

The Minister said the Constitutional Offices Commission consulted him on the appointment, as required under the Constitution, and that he has formally expressed his support for the Commander's second term. Major General Kalouniwai's current five-year contract expires later this year.