The absence of a formal request for the release of former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and convicted former Commissioner of Police Sitiveni Qiliho to attend the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Reconciliation and Restoration program has been confirmed. Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Jalesi Nakarawa stated he had not received any notification regarding their release.
During the event, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acknowledged the importance of the ceremony and expressed his desire for both Bainimarama and Qiliho to be present. The program, which took place at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, Suva, included participation from families affected by the November 2, 2000, mutiny, as well as former RFMF Counter Revolutionary Warfare member Shane Stevens.
Rabuka publicly sought forgiveness from the families and the RFMF ranks, emphasizing the need for patience while hoping for the attendance of Bainimarama and Qiliho. Despite his efforts and the establishment of a protocol team to address the situation, the former leaders were ultimately not in attendance.
Commissioner Nakarawa clarified that the Corrections Service Act 2006 gives the Commissioner of Corrections the authority to approve short-term releases, but such requests must be formally submitted in a timely manner. He reiterated that no such requests were communicated to him.
This event highlights the ongoing complexities surrounding Fiji’s political landscape and the reconciliation process. While it is unfortunate that Bainimarama and Qiliho could not attend, the reconciliation program represents an important step towards healing and understanding within the community. Moving forward, establishing clear communication and protocols for similar events could foster better collaboration between correctional services and the government, contributing to a more inclusive environment for healing in Fiji.
In summary, while the absence of the former leaders may seem like a setback, the efforts by Prime Minister Rabuka to reach out and seek forgiveness signify a hopeful path towards reconciliation and community healing.
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