Shane Stevens, a former member of the Republic of the Fiji Military Forces Counter Revolutionary Warfare (CRW) unit, attended the 24th anniversary of the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua. During this event, he had poignant interactions with the families of CRW soldiers who lost their lives in the attempted mutiny.
Although Mr. Stevens chose not to engage with the media, he played a significant role in the reconciliation and restoration ceremony led by RFMF Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai. Earlier this year, he received a Presidential pardon from the Mercy Commission after serving nearly 22 years for incitement to mutiny, demonstrating a remarkable journey of personal reform.
The Mercy Commission reviewed Mr. Stevens’ progress during his incarceration at Naboro Prison, where he spent 21 years, 8 months, and 20 days. His release coincided with that of George Speight, the leader of the 2000 coup.
Notably, former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho were also invited to the anniversary. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka had requested their temporary release from prison to partake in the commemoration of the RFMF’s Reconciliation and Restoration initiative, although they could not attend the presentation of a traditional military apology due to their ongoing sentences.
This event marks a significant step towards healing and reconciliation in Fiji, as it brings together individuals from different backgrounds to acknowledge past events while fostering a sense of community and future unity. It underscores the importance of dialogue and the potential for personal transformation, offering hope for a more cohesive society.
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