RFMF QUERIES RABUKA’S INVITE

‘He was shocked and surprised. I also asked the Defence Attaché if it was an invitation from a higher authority in the Indian army and he said that the Indian Army does not involve itself with politics or politicians.’

The People’s Alliance (PA) political party confirmed yesterday that its leader Sitiveni Rabuka went to India on an invitation from the Indian Defence Attaché.

Party’s general secretary Sakiasi Ditoka confirmed the visit.

However, this latest development is being queried by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai.

The Commander said protocol dictates that relationships with Defence Attachés are only for defence to defence relationships and not individual persons.

“In fact I just got off a call with the Indian Defence Attaché that’s based in Canberra, they are non-resident here, he resides in Canberra but he looks after Fiji, Tonga and PNG,” he said.

“He was shocked and surprised. I also asked the Defence Attaché if it was an invitation from a higher authority in the Indian army and he said that the Indian Army does not involve itself with politics or politicians.

“He was concerned that his name and role was on the news and that his position was on the line.”

He added that through his conversation with the Indian Defence Attaché, he had no idea about the invitation.

“They are forbidden to do so because it would put their job on the line if they were involved in these issues.

“The protocol is only Defence to Defence relationships, they do not get involved directly with the Government on politics and other matters.”

Questions sent to The Indian High Commission last night were not answered when this edition went to press.