The Republic of Fiji Military Forces pressed ahead with its reconciliation program in the Province of Bua, holding a ceremony at Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua to rebuild trust with communities still affected by the events of 2000.
The day began with a church service led by RFMF Chaplain Major Reverend Viliame Tunidau, who spoke about forgiveness as the cornerstone of healing and stressed that reconciliation remains essential for the Force. He noted from his perspective as a Padre that the RFMF must maintain strong relationships with communities and work to restore the trust that was damaged over the years.
Reverend Tunidau also reiterated that the military must repair ties with communities while supporting the country’s progress. During the ceremony, the RFMF presented their matanigasau, the traditional apology, through a whale’s tooth. It was received on behalf of Cakaunitabua, or Bua, by Village Elder Suliasi Nalotawa. Nalotawa urged those present to let unity and love guide Fiji if lasting peace is to endure, and the RFMF also offered a magiti to mark the occasion.
Tunidau explained that the reconciliation effort began within the RFMF last year, running for 245 days, and the current phase extends outreach to communities with the goal of restoring justice, renewing hope, and rebuilding trust for families and villages affected by the 2000 events. He added that the program is guided by biblical principles and is set to continue in the years ahead.
Addressing questions about presenting the matanigasau to the Methodist Church, Tunidau emphasized that the initiative was not political but a patriotic duty to strengthen community bonds and reaffirm accountability to God.
The reconciliation program forms part of a broader drive by the RFMF to engage with communities as Fiji reflects on its political history and the role of the military in bridging national divides.
Context from previous reconciliation efforts shows a wider national push for healing. Earlier eight-month programs culminated in ceremonies featuring wreath-laying for those who died in the turbulent years, with high-profile attendance and calls for forgiveness from national leaders, signaling broad support for moving toward unity and resilience.
Commentary and further value:
– The emphasis on community outreach marks a continued shift toward healing at the grassroots level, which could help mend long-standing rifts between the military and civilian communities.
– The blend of traditional rites (matanigasau) and religious service underlines the culturally rooted approach Fiji is taking to reconciliation.
– Observers may see this as part of a broader national process involving leadership at the highest levels, signaling commitment to peace and social cohesion.
Summary: The Nabua ceremony underscores the ongoing commitment of the RFMF to reconciliation, extending its reach from within the forces to the wider communities of Bua, with faith-led guidance and traditional rituals aimed at rebuilding trust and hope for a peaceful, united Fiji. A hopeful note for the future is that continued dialogue and accountability could help communities move forward together.
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