The chair of the Great Council of Chiefs, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, has expressed strong support for the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), Ro Jone Kalouniwai, in his efforts to restore the military’s image. Ratu Viliame emphasized that the GCC backs the RFMF’s Reconciliation and Restoration Programme, highlighting that the commander’s initiatives are progressing positively.
However, Ratu Viliame echoed the sentiments of politician and businessman Mick Beddoes, noting the importance of recognizing the grievances of those who feel wronged by the military’s actions in past political upheavals. He acknowledged that many current members of the RFMF were not involved in the pivotal decisions made during historical coups, stating that a significant portion of today’s personnel were either not yet born or were too young to be part of those events.
“Most members of the RFMF were not born in 1987, and I would say around 40 percent of current members were not even born in 2000,” Ratu Viliame remarked. He urged the public to exercise patience as the RFMF continues its efforts toward meaningful change, offering reassurance that a more positive future is on the horizon.
This perspective fosters hope for a constructive dialogue between the military and the populace, paving the way for reconciliation and understanding as Fiji moves forward.
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