After 24 years of mourning her husband Lance Corporal Simione Rawaileba, Salanieta Rawaileba and her family have finally found a sense of closure. This milestone came as former members of the Counter Revolutionary Warfare Unit (CRWU) engaged in a reconciliation process with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) and the families affected by the 2000 mutiny.
Lance Corporal Rawaileba lost his life during the violent conflict between loyal soldiers and the CRWU, leaving behind a legacy that includes five children, two of whom are now serving in the military. Salanieta shared her feelings, stating that each commemoration day has been a painful reminder of her husband’s absence. “Every commemoration day, we’re always filled with his huge loss; nothing seemed to have really healed despite the wreaths and embraces we get,” she said.
However, this recent moment of reconciliation has brought healing to her family. “I always knew that we wanted someone to say sorry or at least own up to what had happened. Today, we received that healing. Nothing can compare to people owning up to their wrongdoings and admitting their mistakes of the past,” she expressed.
Salanieta was accompanied by her son Mulase, who was just a kindergarten student when his father was killed at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, Suva. Reflecting on the historic day, he said, “I had to control myself today. It has been a long time coming. God is a God of forgiveness, and this reconciliation is to heal everyone.”
Salanieta also extended her gratitude to the Government and the RFMF Commander for facilitating this important reconciliation program. “We wanted this closure!” she concluded, emphasizing the profound significance of the initiative.
This reconciliation process not only honors the memories of those lost but also underscores the importance of forgiveness and healing within the community, presenting a hopeful path forward for all affected families.
In summary, the Rawaileba family’s long wait for closure has ended with a reconciliation that signifies healing and acknowledgment of past wrongs, illuminating a brighter future built on forgiveness and understanding.
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