Personnel who were dismissed following the military coup in 2000 may be allowed to rejoin the Republic of the Fiji Military Forces (RFMF). Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai indicated that the RFMF is contemplating this move as part of the reconciliation process.
He explained, “A component of the reconciliation effort involves examining how we can reintegrate some of these affected soldiers back into the RFMF.” Major Kalouniwai recalled that during the 2000 coup, some young soldiers found themselves in unfortunate situations, resulting in sentences of six to eight years. The reconciliation events held in Vanua Levu emphasized addressing this issue.
He noted that many of those impacted are still relatively young, with some just over 40 years of age. The focus is on reintegrating individuals under the age of 55 into the RFMF, which he described as a form of compensation for them. Additionally, the RFMF is working on support for the families and loved ones affected by the events of that time.
Major Kalouniwai reiterated the RFMF’s dedication to completing the reconciliation process.