Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has publicly accepted responsibility for his role in the coups of 2000 and 2006, which he attributes to the roots of the May 14, 1987 coup that he instigated. During an emotionally charged speech at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Reconciliation and Restoration ceremony held at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, Rabuka called for forgiveness and acknowledged the ongoing pain caused by these historical events in families, communities, and the nation as a whole.
In his address, he expressed deep remorse, stating, “To all commissioned officers and all ranks and your families, I bear the blame and I seek forgiveness from you all.” He emphasized his hope that the Lord would grant peace and the strength for reconciliation, not only for himself but also for those who followed his commands during the 1987 coup. “By seeking forgiveness, we acknowledge that true peace in our nation comes from honoring each other’s experiences,” he added.
The ceremony was attended by senior officials from the RFMF, Fiji Police Force, Republic of Fiji Navy, and Fiji Corrections Service, along with retired soldiers and other well-wishers. It served as a significant step toward ending the cycle of “coup culture” in Fiji. The Reconciliation and Restoration program focuses on healing divisions and renewing trust among military personnel and the broader community, reaffirming a collective commitment to national unity and progress.
This historic moment marks an important step towards healing deep-seated divisions within Fijian society. By openly acknowledging past wrongs and seeking forgiveness, leaders like Rabuka can pave the way for a more inclusive and harmonious future for Fiji. The commitment to reconciliation reflects a hopeful aspiration for lasting peace and unity in the nation.
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