Former and current senior leaders of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) have committed to ensuring that Fiji will “never again” face political turmoil. This promise was made during a reconciliation day hosted at the RFMF Chapel in Nabua, led by RFMF Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, and attended by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
The event united prominent figures, including former President Jioji Konrote, former Fiji Corrections Service Commission head Francis Kean, and senior officers like Pita Driti and Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua. However, the absence of some former senior officers, including Inia Seruiratu and former RFMF Commander Viliame Naupoto, was noted.
Prime Minister Rabuka referred to the reconciliation as a chance for military members, both past and present, to reflect on their experiences and offer forgiveness. He emphasized that the gathering was an initiative for reconciliation among those who served and those still serving, particularly regarding the upheavals of 1987, 2000, and 2006. Rabuka expressed optimism for the RFMF’s future direction.
Commander Kalouniwai highlighted that the purpose of the reconciliation was not to blame those involved in past crises but to establish a collective commitment to progress. He stated that this act of acknowledging past errors is vital for reconciliation within the military and the nation.
The discussions emphasized that the political crises of 2000 and 2006 were not mere historical events but critical leadership decisions that significantly impacted the nation. The Commander thanked former officers for participating and assured the Government that the military would uphold the rule of law.
Unity Fiji party leader Savenaca Narube remarked that all coups have inflicted severe damage, including loss of lives, increased racial distrust, corruption, and economic struggle. He previously estimated that each coup cost the country about $3 billion, excluding the human cost, suggesting that without the coups, Fiji’s economy could have been three times larger. Narube also pointed out the ongoing socio-economic challenges faced by Indigenous Fijians, urging that the primary goal should be to permanently prevent future coups.