As United Nations negotiators continue the negotiation process with the Al Nusra Front for the safe release of the 45 Fijian UN peacekeepers in Syria, Army Commander Brigadier General Mosese Tikoitoga has raised serious concerns about comments made by former Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka to the New Zealand media.
Brigadier General Tikoitoga has condemned the comments made by Rabuka on Radio New Zealand.
He stresses that this is the time to stay united and to focus on the safe release of our peacekeepers serving in the Golan Heights.
Fijivillage has contacted Police in relation to the comments by Rabuka.
Police spokesperson, Ana Naisoro said they will comment later today.
We questioned Rabuka on why he made the comments where he singled out the local Muslim community.
He first said that people need to understand the issue in the context that he had made the comment.
We asked him on why he went down the path of singling out the local Muslim community when he had the option to say that Fiji should be united in ensuring that our peacekeepers are released.
Rabuka said he meant no harm and apologized to the Muslim community.
Rabuka has asked that his Radio NZ interview be played however this is now expected to be assessed by the Police.
Rabuka then said that he would not have said it any other way as he believes that his assessment is based on what is happening in other countries.
Meanwhile RFMF Commander, Brigadier General Mosese Tikoitoga said he sympathizes with the families who are going through this difficult time as the professional negotiation team from New York is still working on the demands.
434 Fijians are serving in the Golan Heights.
