Former and current high-ranking officials of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) have made a commitment to ensure that Fiji does not face political turmoil again. This commitment was expressed during a reconciliation event held at the RFMF Chapel in Nabua, which was led by RFMF Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai and attended by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
The gathering included prominent figures such as former President Jioji Konrote, former Fiji Corrections Service Commission chair Francis Kean, and former senior officers including Pita Driti, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, Etueni Caucau, Neumi Leweni, and Sakiusa Raivoce, along with Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua and Minister for Rural Development Sakiasi Ditoka. However, some former senior officers were noticeably absent, including Inia Seruiratu, former RFMF Commander Viliame Naupoto, and Ioane Naivalurua.
Prime Minister Rabuka characterized the reconciliation event as a valuable opportunity for both past and present military personnel to reflect on their experiences and seek mutual forgiveness. He emphasized that the event, which looked back on the upheavals of 1987, 2000, and 2006, marked a decision to move past painful moments in history. “Everyone opened up and was well received. We now stand together, putting our backs to the sad episodes of our history, and commit that ‘never again’,” he stated. Rabuka expressed confidence that the RFMF is moving in a positive direction.
Commander Kalouniwai stressed that the aim of the reconciliation was not to assign blame for past crises but to build a collective resolve to advance together. He noted that this gesture symbolizes a commitment to recognize past mistakes and is an essential step in fostering reconciliation both within the military and across the nation. The discussions during the event highlighted that the political crises of 2000 and 2006 were pivotal decisions that had long-lasting effects on the country. Kalouniwai expressed gratitude to former officers for attending and assured the Government that the military would uphold the rule of law.
Unity Fiji party leader Savenaca Narube addressed the long-term repercussions of military coups, asserting that they have caused significant harm, including loss of life, heightened racial distrust, corruption, and economic difficulties. “Some years ago, I estimated that each coup cost the country an average of $3 billion, not counting the loss of lives,” Narube remarked. He suggested that without these coups, Fiji’s economy would be significantly stronger than it is today. Narube also pointed out the continuous socio-economic challenges faced by Indigenous Fijians, stating that no government has adequately tackled their economic issues. He concluded by stressing the importance of preventing future coups permanently.