Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed his commitment to participate in the reconciliation process led by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), under the direction of Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai.
In a press conference, Rabuka noted that the RFMF plans to invite him, along with former RFMF Commander Brigadier-General Retired Ratu Epeli Nailatikau and former Chief of Staff Lt-Colonel Jim Sanday, to provide accounts in their capacity as former military leaders.
He mentioned that the Cabinet has approved the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) that will develop a legal framework to oversee reconciliation efforts distinct from those of the RFMF.
Ro Jone clarified that the RFMF would complete its internal reconciliation process before participating in a broader national reconciliation effort. He stated that the military has been invited to engage with the Coalition Government’s national reconciliation initiatives, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding public trust in the RFMF.
He envisioned starting the internal process to allow soldiers to share their experiences at the national level later. This approach is crucial to prepare them for potential participation in a national reconciliation panel, ensuring they understand the context and challenges of sharing their stories from the years 1987 to 2000 and 2006.
The primary goal of the commission is to facilitate healing, forgiveness, and trust, thereby promoting social cohesion and unity within the nation. The Prime Minister reinforced that the TRC aims to assist those who have suffered violations in achieving healing and closure through genuine reconciliation with those responsible.