Minister for Defence Pio Tikoduadua has commended the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander Ro Jone Kalouniwai for publicly acknowledging accountability following the death of Jone Vakarisi while in military custody.

Responding to Fiji One News, Tikoduadua described the Commander’s comments as a courageous step and an important show of leadership during a difficult period for the institution.

“I think it was a brave and bold decision, and not only that, it was the right decision.”

The Defence Minister also acknowledged the Commander’s call for accountability and urged support from officers and military personnel across the Force.

“I want to thank him, and I urge the support of all the unit commanders, officers and the men and women of the RFMF to take heed of the Commander’s sentiments.”

Tikoduadua said the military institution must continue to stand for truth and uphold the rule of law.

“I’m glad that the RFMF as an institution stands for the truth and for the rule of law in particular. That is something we continue to emphasise.”

He also called on military personnel to remain calm and allow due legal processes to proceed.

When asked how public trust in the military can be maintained amid the incident, Tikoduadua said leaders within the Force must continue to guide personnel to act professionally and lawfully.

“It’s simple logic and simple common sense. If it breaks the law, don’t do it,full stop.”

Major General 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 these was the incident that happened at the 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 yesterday 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.

Investigation into Vakarisi’s death continues.