RFMF will follow law, not intervene

Pio Tikoduadua has dismissed speculation about military intervention while reaffirming the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) constitutional role.

The Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua said the RFMF would not intervene in political matters and would strictly follow the rule of law.

His message was in response to public speculation on social and traditional media about possible military involvement into the deplorable political arena.

“The RFMF is looking to the future. It has no intention, but to follow the law,” he said.

He warned against individuals attempting to drag the military into political debates for personal gain.

“People want to stir up the RFMF for their own personal interests and benefits. Many here in Fiji and many abroad seem to think that the RFMF is a solution for everything.

“When there is something that affects our nation and our people generally, the first thing to do is to follow the law,” he said.

He said the Fiji Police Force held primary responsibility for law enforcement, but the Government was considering a hybrid framework that could allow the RFMF to support authorities when necessary.

“The evolving nature of security threats demands a flexible, coordinated and whole-of-nation response. In this regard, consideration is being given to the development of a hybrid framework under which the RFMF may be called to support national authorities when specialised capabilities are required.”

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