Fiji’s armed forces took a formal step toward healing old wounds with the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma, presenting a traditional matanigasau apology at Vodafone Arena in Suva. The ceremony featured soldiers arriving with mats, tapa, cloth, kerosene, and food, and saw Major Elia Rokowailoa place a tabua, a carved tooth or precious token, before church president Reverend Dr Semisi Turagavou as a sign of contrition. Speaking in the iTaukei language, Maj Rokowailoa asked for the church’s forgiveness, acknowledging that actions by the military over the years affected church ministers and their families and expressing sincere remorse. In response, Dr Turagavou accepted the reconciliation and declared forgiveness, noting that forgiveness comes in the name of Jesus Christ and that peace now prevails.
This public act is described by church and military leaders as part of a broader reconciliation drive intended to heal past divisions within the nation’s governance framework and between security forces and civil society. The reconciliation process is said to extend beyond this ceremony, with the military chaplain Rev Viliame Tunidau highlighting that the effort began internally and has moved into communities such as Bau Island and the church, aligning with the plan of Military Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai to improve relationships with stakeholders and communities. Tunidau added that the reconciliation effort rests on humility and seeks to strengthen internal relationships within the forces.
As part of the reconciliation program, Tunidau announced a financial contribution of $5,000 to the church, emphasizing that spiritual leadership and guidance accompany the practical steps toward rebuilding trust. He also indicated his belief that God has chosen him to lead the church’s youth ministry, underscoring a forward-looking aim to engage younger generations in the nation’s healing process.
Broader context of the reconciliation push includes the Methodist Church’s ongoing support for national reconciliation initiatives. Several related statements from church leaders echo backing for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ Reconciliation and Restoration Programme, recognizing its role in promoting healing and unity within the military and the wider community. Church secretary Reverend Jolame Lasawa has said the church is supportive of the government’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission proposal and has committed representative involvement to help shape the program’s legal and governance framework. The Steering Committee overseeing this commission, chaired by Assistant Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Sashi Kiran, is actively engaging civil society, faith groups, political parties, and media to refine the legal framework and establish sustainable structures, with regular reports expected to the Prime Minister.
Analysis and context
– This event marks a significant, culturally resonant gesture of contrition that blends traditional Fijian practices with Christian faith, signaling a collaborative approach to national healing.
– The reconciliation narrative is not limited to the military and church; it sits within a broader national effort toward truth-telling, accountability, and unity, including the government-led Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
– The church’s repeated public support for reconciliation initiatives—both with the RFMF programme and with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission—suggests a persistent role for faith-based organizations in mediating complex civic processes.
Summary
The Fiji Military Forces’ apology to the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma, reinforced by a ceremonial matanigasau and a tabua, represents a concrete step in a wider reconciliation agenda spanning internal military reforms, church collaboration, and national truth-telling efforts. The gesture, accompanied by financial support and leadership commitments, aligns with ongoing government and faith-based initiatives designed to foster healing, unity, and modernization of governance in Fiji.
Optional hopeful perspective
– If such inter-societal gestures continue to be paired with transparent governance reforms and active youth engagement, they could further rebuild trust between security forces and civil society, helping to strengthen national cohesion and resilience.
If you’d like, I can add a short side note explaining the cultural significance of matanigasau and tabua to readers unfamiliar with Fijian customs, or draft a brief callout that highlights how readers can learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s work.
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