Former Opposition leader Mick Beddoes has urged the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) to acknowledge and accept the critical social media feedback from citizens regarding their reconciliation efforts. This response follows remarks made by RFMF Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, who addressed the public’s discontent with the military’s attempts to seek forgiveness from those affected by past military actions.
Beddoes questioned the target of the military’s reconciliation initiatives, emphasizing that if they are not aimed at the citizens of Fiji, then their efforts lack purpose. He noted that while reconciling with the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) is significant—given their own history as victims of the RFMF-led coup in 2006—the military must also reckon with the broader community of Fijians, many of whom have suffered over the years.
He highlighted that negative reactions on social media should be anticipated, considering that citizens have endured substantial pain and loss due to military actions over the past three decades. In order to regain the trust and pride of the Fijian people, Beddoes suggested that the military publicly express genuine regret and remorse for its actions. He stressed the importance of seeking forgiveness from affected families, particularly those who lost loved ones, and pledged to uphold a commitment to never again forsake the populace.
Additionally, Beddoes emphasized the importance of the military reaffirming their commitment to defend the Fijian people and their elected government, advocating for the separation of military duties from political aspirations. He encouraged military personnel wishing to enter politics to resign and compete in free and fair elections, thereby allowing citizens to choose their representatives based on merit and sincerity.
While Beddoes acknowledges the RFMF’s reconciliation efforts, he insists that both the military and citizens must be equal partners in the process, ensuring that neither side dictates the reconciliation terms. This plea for equality in the reconciliation process reflects Beddoes’ hope for a more transparent and inclusive approach to healing the divisions within Fijian society.
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