Former and current high-ranking officials of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) have committed to preventing future political turmoil in Fiji. This pledge was made during a reconciliation event held at the RFMF Chapel in Nabua, headed by RFMF Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai and attended by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
The gathering included significant figures such as former President Jioji Konrote, former Fiji Corrections Service Commission head Francis Kean, and notable former officers including Pita Driti and Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, along with current ministers Pio Tikoduadua and Sakiasi Ditoka. However, the absence of some former senior officers like Inia Seruiratu and ex-RFMF Commander Viliame Naupoto was noted.
Prime Minister Rabuka characterized the reconciliation as a chance for military personnel, both past and present, to reflect on common experiences and foster forgiveness. He stated, “This is the Commander’s initiative for reconciliation among those who served and those of us still serving, especially those who experienced the upheavals of 1987, 2000, and 2006. Everyone opened up and was well received. We now stand together, put our backs to the sad episodes of our history, and commit that ‘never again’.”
Commander Kalouniwai emphasized the goal of the reconciliation was not to lay blame, but rather to foster a collective commitment to progress. He mentioned that the act of contrition signifies an acknowledgment of past mistakes, which is crucial for the larger reconciliation process within the military and the nation.
The discussions highlighted that the political crises of 2000 and 2006 represent more than just historical events; they were critical leadership decisions that profoundly affected the country. The Commander assured former officers of the military’s commitment to uphold the rule of law.
Savenaca Narube, leader of the Unity Fiji party, remarked that all coups have inflicted significant harm, resulting in loss of lives, racial distrust, corruption, and economic difficulties. He estimated that every coup has cost the country around $3 billion, excluding the human cost, and suggested that without these upheavals, Fiji’s economy would be considerably larger today. Narube also pointed out the ongoing socio-economic challenges faced by Indigenous Fijians, noting that no government has effectively addressed their economic conditions, and stressed the importance of stopping future coups permanently.