Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and convicted ex-Commissioner of Police Sitiveni Qiliho were not formally requested to be released in order to attend the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Reconciliation and Restoration programme last Saturday, according to Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Jalesi Nakarawa. He stated that he had not been notified of any such request for their release.
During the reconciliation event, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka expressed his desire for both Bainimarama and Qiliho to participate. The ceremony took place at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, Suva, and honored the families affected by the November 2, 2000 mutiny. Despite Mr. Rabuka’s announcement and plea for forgiveness regarding past events, including actions taken by Bainimarama and Qiliho, the two did not attend the gathering, prompting a quick response from Rabuka’s protocol team to clarify the situation.
Nakarawa emphasized the need for formal procedures to be followed, noting that any request for short-term release must be done with adequate notice as per the Corrections Service Act of 2006, which outlines guidelines for such releases. This includes provisions for attending educational courses or facilitating rehabilitation.
This situation highlights the complexities involved in the reconciliation process within Fiji and reflects the ongoing need for formal communication and protocols. Although Bainimarama and Qiliho’s absence may have been disappointing for some, the event was still a crucial step in addressing past grievances and fostering a spirit of forgiveness and unity in the community.
In a hopeful light, the ongoing discussions surrounding reconciliation signify a willingness to confront the past and make strides toward healing. While the immediate circumstances may not have unfolded as desired, the commitment to transparency and forgiveness by leaders like Prime Minister Rabuka could pave the way for more inclusive future events that bring together all parties involved.
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