Former and current senior officers of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) have vowed to ensure that Fiji is “never again” subjected to political turmoil. This commitment was expressed during a reconciliation event 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, former Fiji Corrections Service Commission Chief Francis Kean, and senior officers like Pita Driti, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, Etueni Caucau, Neumi Leweni, Sakiusa Raivoce, as well as Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua and Minister for Rural Development Sakiasi Ditoka. However, some former senior officers, including Inia Seruiratu, former RFMF Commander Viliame Naupoto, and Ioane Naivalurua, were notably absent.
Prime Minister Rabuka referred to the reconciliation as a valuable opportunity for military personnel, both past and present, to reflect on shared experiences and extend forgiveness. “This is the Commander’s initiative for reconciliation among those who served, especially those who experienced the upheavals of 1987, 2000, and 2006,” Rabuka stated. He expressed optimism that the RFMF is moving in the right direction.
Commander Kalouniwai stressed that the goal of the reconciliation was to foster unity rather than to assign blame for past crises. He articulated that this gesture signifies a commitment to acknowledge previous mistakes and is a necessary step towards broader reconciliation within both the military and the nation.
The discussions highlighted that the political crises of 2000 and 2006 were not merely historical events but pivotal leadership choices that had lasting effects on the country. The Commander thanked the former officers for their attendance and reassured the Government of the military’s commitment to uphold the rule of law.
Unity Fiji party leader Savenaca Narube remarked on the significant damage caused by the coups, including loss of life, racial distrust, corruption, and economic difficulties. He estimated that each coup has cost the nation around $3 billion, excluding the human cost. Narube asserted that without these coups, Fiji’s economy would be significantly stronger and emphasized the need to prevent future coups for the well-being of the nation.