Former Republic of Fiji Military Forces Chief of Staff Jim Sanday has been appointed as the Independent Review Lead for the Government’s National Security and Defence Review.

Sanday who was removed from office during the 1987 coup staged by Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, will now report to the Minister for Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, and the National Security Council.

While making the announcement this morning, the Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua said the selection of Jim Sanday, as the independent review lead, heralds a new chapter in our journey towards a more secure future.

Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Commander Ro Jone Kalouniwai has acknowledged the need to carry out this review.

Tikoduadua says Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka was very influential in the process and motivated Colonel Jim Sanday to apply to lead the review of Fiji’s national security and defense.

The review will undertake extensive consultations with the public, government stakeholders, and civil society organisations.

He stresses the importance of community engagement as a key priority to ensure the review reflects the diversity of all Fijians.