The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) is prepared to spearhead the reconciliation process in Fiji, acknowledging the feelings of sadness, pain, and anger that may arise. Chairman Ratu Viliame Seruvakula emphasized that the nation cannot continue to exist in a “dirty and messy” environment.
Ratu Viliame expressed his full support for the call made by Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu for a transparent dialogue regarding events from 1987, 2000, and 2006. He reflected on his time in the army during the tumultuous events of 2000, stating that after the mutiny, he urged his staff in the third battalion to thoroughly investigate any issues that arose during that period and ensure due process was observed.
He remarked, “We cannot go forward without cleaning up the house. It’s hard constantly living in a dirty house if we are to progress, and I believe Fiji needs to address this at the national level.” Ratu Viliame noted that while the country managed to navigate through the crises of 1987 and 2000, it failed to adequately address the underlying issues, resulting in an increasingly messy situation by 2006. He suggested that it might be time to consider building a completely new foundation for the future.
In his discussions with Assistant Minister for Women Sashi Kiran, Ratu Viliame expressed his willingness to share his experiences before a Commission. He recounted how he had previously approached the police to inquire about any outstanding investigations against him before moving to New Zealand, highlighting his desire to not carry any unresolved matters.
“Life is too short to live with such burdens,” Ratu Viliame stated, acknowledging that although the process may evoke sadness, pain, and anger, it is essential for progress. He was appointed GCC chairman in February of this year and had a significant role in reclaiming the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua during the 2000 attempted mutiny.