Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander, Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, has acknowledged the seriousness of the death of Jone Vakarisi while in military custody, stressing that accountability and due process must be upheld.

Major General Kalouniwai described the incident as unintentional, emphasising that the Force must now take accountability for what transpired.

“In the past few months, we had started with the joint operations with the Fiji Police, amongst this was the incident that happened at camp. It was not intentional and no one knew it would end up the way it did.”

He made the comments during the Force Family Church Service held today at Centenary Church in Suva, which brought together members of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces for a time of worship, reflection and leadership guidance.

The comments also come amid ongoing investigations into the death of Vakarisi, and public concern and scrutiny over military conduct.

Major General Kalouniwai said the matter has been difficult but emphasised that processes must be followed and that all actions must be guided by the law.

He highlighted the importance of leadership, discipline and maintaining the character expected of military personnel, saying the RFMF must remain patient and vigilant during what he described as a very difficult and complex period.

The Commander adds that no one is above accountability, indicating that whatever actions are taken must be carried out properly and within the boundaries of the law.

Major General Kalouniwai further stressed that all processes must be followed and guided strictly by the law.

The service was led by Force Chaplain, Reverend Major Taniela Tama, and attended by senior military officers and personnel.