Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed his commitment to participating in the reconciliation process of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), which is being led by RFMF Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai.
In a recent media conference, Rabuka mentioned that the RFMF plans to summon him, in his former role as RFMF Commander, alongside former Commander Brigadier-General Retired Ratu Epeli Nailatikau and former Chief of Staff Lt-Colonel Jim Sanday, for an account of their experiences.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) has received Cabinet endorsement to establish a legal framework, separate from the RFMF’s initiatives. Earlier, Ro Jone indicated that the RFMF aims to finalize its reconciliation efforts before engaging in the broader national reconciliation process.
Ro Jone noted that the RFMF has been invited to participate in the national reconciliation initiative led by the Coalition Government. He emphasized the importance of building public trust and confidence in the RFMF, aiming for a complete reconciliation process.
“Our internal process will allow soldiers to share their experiences before they are involved in the national reconciliation panel. This will help them understand the complexities of sharing their stories concerning the events between 1987 and 2006,” Ro Jone explained.
Ultimately, the commission’s primary focus is to promote healing, reconciliation, forgiveness, and trust, fostering social cohesion and unity within the nation. The Prime Minister reiterated that the TRC’s main goal is to assist victims in achieving healing and closure through sincere reconciliation with those who have caused them harm.