The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) held a poignant Reconciliation and Restoration ceremony at Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, uniting current and former personnel. The event began with a church service dedicated to reconciliation, followed by heartfelt speeches from the families of victims and a traditional forgiveness ceremony.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka addressed the gathering, openly accepting responsibility for the events leading to the 1987 coup, stating, “I should bear the blame for starting the coup in 1987.” He expressed a deep hope for forgiveness, asking God to grant the families the spirit to forgive not only him but also those who followed his orders during that tumultuous time.
Rabuka shared his gratitude for being able to implement the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which seeks to foster unity within the community. The RFMF also publicly sought forgiveness from the families affected by the 2000 mutiny, where eight soldiers tragically lost their lives. Family members shared their struggles over the past two decades, highlighting the emotional toll and challenges they’ve faced since the event.
Former RFMF Counter Revolutionary Warfare Leader Shane Stevens also attended, meeting with the grieving families of the soldiers.
This event marks a significant step toward healing and reconciliation in Fiji’s military community. It demonstrates a commitment to acknowledge past wrongs and foster a spirit of forgiveness and unity. Moving forward, such ceremonies could pave the way for deeper understanding and restoration among the affected families and the wider community.
In summary, the Reconciliation and Restoration ceremony served as an important moment for reflection and healing, encouraging a collective move towards peace and understanding in Fiji’s history. The recognition of past wrongs and the shared hope for forgiveness signal a positive trajectory for those impacted by past conflicts.
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