Fiji’s Minister for Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, has called on politicians not to stick their noses into the affairs of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.
The Minister took this stance while speaking at the RFMF Black Rock Camp in Nadi Thursday.
Tikoduadua said it is against the normal democratic practice to interfere in the affairs of the RFMF as it is against the law.
He said the RFMF should be left alone to do its job.
“… and this is what we want it to be – a professional force that is best in the world. It serves peace and makes its people proud—those are the aspirations of the government and mine.”
He said the role of the RFMF is clearly stipulated in the law and there is a whole range of processes required to review or even change it.
Tikoduadua said he does not agree with the way politicians are interpreting it.
He said there will be a defense review, and this is a collective process of all the people of Fiji, as they want an ownership agreement agreed to together.
Tikoduadua said the RFMF has done Fiji proud, as their strength and courage have ensured a smooth transition of power.
The Minister said the RFMF still has a whole lot more to do for the people and the nation, but there is a whole lot more that we can do together.
Meanwhile, Australian Foreign Minister, Penny Wong visited the Republic of Fiji Military Force’s Blackrock Peacekeeping Camp in Votualevu, Nadi.
The Australian Foreign Minister was accompanied by the Minister for Home and Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua where she was briefed about troops deployment and later held a bilateral meeting.
Minister Wong shared that the world-class facility plays a key role in security and stability.
Tikoduadua highlighted that the Australian Foreign Minister’s visit was crucial and thanked the Australian Government for funding the Blackrock Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief Camp…..
SOURCE: FBC NEWS/PACNEWS
