Former and current senior officials of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) have committed to ensuring that Fiji does not experience political turmoil in the future.
This pledge was made during a reconciliation event held yesterday at the RFMF Chapel in Nabua, under the leadership of RFMF Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, with the participation of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
The gathering included notable personalities such as former President Jioji Konrote, former Fiji Corrections Service Commission head Francis Kean, and various senior officers including Pita Driti, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, Etueni Caucau, Neumi Leweni, and Sakiusa Raivoce, along with current ministers Pio Tikoduadua and Sakiasi Ditoka. Notably, some former senior leaders, including Inia Seruiratu, former RFMF Commander Viliame Naupoto, and Ioane Naivalurua, were absent from the event.
Prime Minister Rabuka characterized the reconciliation as a chance for military personnel, both past and present, to reflect on shared experiences and engage in mutual forgiveness. He noted, “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. Everyone opened up and was well received. We now stand together, put our backs to the sad episodes of our history, and commit that ‘never again.’ I am absolutely positive that the RFMF is heading in the right direction.”
Commander Kalouniwai stressed that the purpose of the reconciliation was not to assign blame for past crises but to foster a collective commitment to move forward. He stated, “This act of contrition symbolizes a commitment to acknowledge past mistakes and serves as an essential step in the broader process of reconciliation within the military and the nation as a whole.” Discussions highlighted that the political crises of 2000 and 2006 represented significant leadership decisions that left lasting scars on the nation. The Commander expressed gratitude to former officers for their attendance and assured the Government of the military’s commitment to uphold the rule of law.
Savenaca Narube, leader of the Unity Fiji party, remarked that all coups have inflicted severe damage, leading to loss of lives, racial distrust, corruption, and economic adversity. He noted, “Some years ago, I estimated that each coup cost the country an average of $3 billion, not counting the loss of lives. If the coups didn’t happen, our economy would be at least three times larger than it is now.” Narube also pointed out the ongoing socio-economic challenges faced by Indigenous Fijians, stating that no government has effectively addressed their economic conditions, and he underscored the imperative to prevent future coups permanently.