The Republic of Fiji Military Forces held a poignant Reconciliation and Restoration ceremony at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, bringing together current and former military personnel, as well as the families of victims. The ceremony began with a church service focused on reconciliation, followed by heartfelt speeches from bereaved families and a traditional forgiveness ceremony.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, reflecting on the events that led to the coup in 1987, took personal responsibility for his role, stating, “All these things began on the 14th of May 1987 and I should bear the blame.” He expressed sorrow over his past actions and sought forgiveness from both families affected by the past and those who wrongly followed his orders. He encouraged a spirit of forgiveness and highlighted the importance of establishing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which aims to facilitate unity within the nation.
Additionally, the military sought forgiveness from the eight families who suffered losses during the 2000 mutiny, a period marked by significant turmoil. The families shared their ongoing struggles over the past two decades, shedding light on the deep scars left by these historic events.
Former RFMF Counter Revolutionary Warfare Leader Shane Stevens was also present at the ceremony, meeting with the families of the deceased soldiers from the 2000 mutiny, symbolizing a step towards healing and reconciliation.
This ceremony represents a critical move towards healing past wounds and fostering unity within the Fijian community. It underscores the importance of acknowledging historical injustices while promoting a hopeful future where forgiveness and reconciliation pave the way for a more cohesive society.
Overall, the gathering stands as a testament to the power of remembrance and the collective effort to move forward, highlighting the resilience of the Fijian people in their journey towards peace and understanding.
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