Dr. Mukesh Bhagat, a general practitioner, inquired during the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) consultations in Lautoka whether the commission had the backing of the Republic of the Fiji Military Forces (RFMF). He questioned, “Does the TRC have the approval of the army?” pointing out that throughout various coups, the military had targeted unarmed civilians.
Sashi Kiran, the chairperson of the TRC steering committee, responded that RFMF Commander Jone Kalouniwai had expressed his support for the reconciliation process. During previous consultations held in Labasa, Kiran noted that the RFMF was undertaking its own reconciliation efforts internally within the military at this time.