Former and current leaders of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) have vowed to prevent future political turmoil in Fiji. This commitment was expressed during a reconciliation event held at the RFMF Chapel in Nabua, 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, ex-Chief of the Fiji Corrections Service Francis Kean, and past senior officers like Pita Driti, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, Etueni Caucau, Neumi Leweni, Sakiusa Raivoce, along with current ministers Pio Tikoduadua and Sakiasi Ditoka. However, the absence of former officers like Inia Seruiratu, former RFMF Commander Viliame Naupoto, and Ioane Naivalurua was noted.
Prime Minister Rabuka characterized the reconciliation as a chance for military members, both past and present, to share their experiences and forgive each other. 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 highlighted that participants were open during discussions and expressed optimism that the RFMF was on a positive path forward.
Commander Kalouniwai reiterated that the reconciliation aimed to promote unity rather than to assign blame for past events. He explained that acknowledging previous mistakes is vital for the broader reconciliation process, both within the military and the nation.
The discussions pointed out that the political crises of 2000 and 2006 were more than mere historical events; they constituted significant leadership failures that have left lasting scars on the nation. The Commander expressed gratitude to former officers for their participation and confirmed the military’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
Savenaca Narube, leader of the Unity Fiji party, pointed out that all coups have had devastating effects, resulting in loss of life, heightened racial distrust, corruption, and economic strife. He estimated that each coup has cost the country around $3 billion, excluding the human cost, and argued that without these disruptions, Fiji’s economy could have seen much greater growth. Narube also stressed the pressing need to address the socio-economic issues facing Indigenous Fijians, adding that preventing future coups is the most important goal.