A significant chapter in the history of the Republic of the Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) came to a close with the conclusion of the Reconciliation and Restoration program, which lasted almost a year. The program’s completion coincided with the 24th anniversary of the attempted mutiny at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua. This event was marked by emotional reflections from the families of the eight soldiers who lost their lives during that dark period, expressing relief and hope for a new beginning for the military institution.
Salanieta Veilewai, the widow of the late Private Temo Veilewai, expressed her appreciation for the RFMF’s dedication to the program, stating it helped lift the burden of grief that her family had carried for nearly a quarter of a century. She conveyed her gratitude for the ongoing remembrance of the fallen soldiers, emphasizing the long-overdue acknowledgment of their sacrifices.
Similarly, Litiana Davui, whose husband, Jone Davui, also lost his life during the turmoil, shared her own struggles with the memory of November as a painful reminder for her and her children. She extended an apology on behalf of her family for any role her late husband may have played, coupled with an act of forgiveness towards those responsible for his death.
The son of the late Lance Corporal Simione Rawaileba, Mulase Rawaileba, reflected on his limited memories of his father, recalling only a fleeting moment from his early childhood. Nevertheless, he felt a sense of relief and hope after the program, acknowledging that it signified the RFMF’s commitment to healing and moving forward.
This reconciliation initiative not only honored the memories of the fallen soldiers but also provided an opportunity for the families to heal and find closure. It symbolizes a progressive step toward acknowledging the past while fostering a new era of understanding and growth within the military.
In summary, the completion of the Reconciliation and Restoration program marks a hopeful transition for the RFMF, bridging the gap of grief for the families affected by past events and fostering a spirit of forgiveness and healing within the community. This transformative moment provides an uplifting viewpoint on how acknowledgment and reconciliation can pave the way for a more united future.
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