The family of Ratu Epenisa Cakobau, the Vunivalu na Tui Kaba, expressed their willingness to forgive the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) following a traditional apology presented by a military delegation. This ceremony, which took place on Bau Island, marks a significant step toward healing wounds from a traumatic event on June 8, 2018, when armed soldiers interrupted Ratu Epenisa’s homecoming just before his official installation as Vunivalu.
Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai led the RFMF delegation and presented a traditional soro, or apology, symbolized by a whale’s tooth, which signifies peace. Although Ratu Epenisa could not attend due to illness, his family, represented by spokesperson Ratu Aisea Komaitai, received the gesture with open hearts.
Emotional testimonies from Ratu Epenisa’s eldest son, Ratu Popi Seniloli Epeli Cakobau, highlighted the traumatic impact on their family, recalling the fear experienced by his younger siblings during the incident. Ratu Popi shared, “I remember seeing them crying and scared about what was happening,” emphasizing the lasting emotional scars that the event left on their lives.
This reconciliation was not merely a one-time event but a part of the RFMF’s broader Truth and Reconciliation program, which aims to mend relationships with various traditional communities impacted by past military actions. Major-General Kalouniwai articulated the military’s intent to address historical grievances and restore trust, stating, “The past is a place of reference, not a place of residence,” indicating a hopeful perspective on the future relationship between the military and the community.
Ratu Komaitai noted that Ratu Epenisa felt relieved upon learning of the RFMF’s visit, describing the rain on the day of the ceremony as a blessing. “Everything happened in God’s timing, and the chief is in acceptance of the apology,” he remarked.
The initiative serves as a pivotal moment for reconciliation in Fiji, similar to recent events where the RFMF sought forgiveness from other communities affected by past military actions. For instance, the RFMF has made efforts to reconcile with the vanua of Caumatalevu, linking both initiatives to the broader historical context of military interventions in Fiji. These actions suggest a sincere intention from the military to heal relationships and foster unity among the communities they serve.
Such efforts towards reconciliation not only reflect a commitment to acknowledging past wrongs but also offer a path to future collaboration and strengthening community ties in Fiji.
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