Former and current senior members of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) have committed to preventing any future political turmoil in the country. This pledge was made during a reconciliation event held at the RFMF Chapel in Nabua, which was conducted by RFMF Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai and attended by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
The event gathered prominent figures, including former President Jioji Konrote, former Fiji Corrections Service Commission Chief Francis Kean, and several high-ranking former military officials such as Pita Driti, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, Etueni Caucau, Neumi Leweni, Sakiusa Raivoce, as well as current Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua and Minister for Rural Development Sakiasi Ditoka. However, the absence of some key former officers, including Inia Seruiratu, former RFMF Commander Viliame Naupoto, and Ioane Naivalurua, was noted.
Prime Minister Rabuka characterized the reconciliation event as a chance for military personnel, both past and current, to reflect on their experiences and foster forgiveness among themselves. 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.” Rabuka emphasized the importance of unity moving forward: “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 pointed out that the aim of the reconciliation was not to assign blame for previous crises but to foster a collective commitment to progress. He noted, “This act of contrition symbolizes a commitment to acknowledge past mistakes and serves as an essential step in the broader process of reconciliation within the military and the nation as a whole.” The discussions highlighted that the political crises of 2000 and 2006 were more than mere historical events; they represented significant leadership failures that left deep scars on the nation. The Commander expressed gratitude to the former officers for their attendance and reassured the Government that the military would maintain the rule of law.
Unity Fiji party leader Savenaca Narube conveyed that all coups have inflicted significant harm on the country, leading to loss of life, racial distrust, corruption, and economic difficulties. He reflected, “Some years ago, I estimated that each coup cost the country an average of $3 billion, not counting the loss of lives.” Narube added that without the coups, Fiji’s economy would be at least three times larger than it currently is. He further stressed the ongoing socio-economic repercussions on Indigenous Fijians, emphasizing that no government has sufficiently addressed their economic status. He concluded by stating, “The most crucial issue is to stop future coups, once and for all.”