Former and current senior officers of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) have committed to preventing future political turmoil in Fiji. This pledge was made 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 featured prominent figures, including former President Jioji Konrote, former Fiji Corrections Service Commission Chief Francis Kean, and several former senior officers like Pita Driti and Ratu Viliame Seruvakula. Notably absent were former senior officers such as Inia Seruiratu and former RFMF Commander Viliame Naupoto.
Prime Minister Rabuka described the reconciliation as a chance for both past and present military personnel to reflect on their experiences and seek forgiveness from one another. He noted that the initiative aims to foster unity among those who experienced the upheavals of 1987, 2000, and 2006, encouraging a collective commitment to ensure such events do not recur. Rabuka expressed confidence in the RFMF’s direction.
Commander Kalouniwai affirmed that the reconciliation was focused on moving forward rather than placing blame for past crises. He described the event as a crucial step in acknowledging prior mistakes and promoting healing within both the military and the nation. The discussions highlighted that the political crises of 2000 and 2006 represented significant leadership failures that had lasting impacts on the country.
Unity Fiji party leader Savenaca Narube spoke about the devastating consequences of coups, citing loss of life, racial distrust, corruption, and economic struggles. He estimated that each coup could have cost the country approximately $3 billion, a figure that doesn’t account for human losses. Narube emphasized the need to address the socio-economic challenges faced by Indigenous Fijians and called for actions to prevent future coups.