Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acknowledged that his office did not adhere to proper procedures when seeking the participation of his predecessor Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho in the reconciliation process held at Queen Elizabeth Barracks last Saturday. During the ceremony, the Prime Minister made a request to President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere for their release from the Fiji Corrections Service to attend the event.
Rabuka made attempts to delay the proceedings, urging the organizers to wait as both Bainimarama and Qiliho were en route to the venue. However, both individuals ultimately did not attend the ceremony. The Prime Minister later apologized to RFMF Commander, Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, for the oversight, acknowledging that his request for their release should have been directed to Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, the Commissioner of Fiji Corrections Service. Instead, he approached the President due to the absence of the Commissioner at the event. Rabuka accepted that the President did not have the authority to facilitate their release, which contributed to the timing constraints.
This incident highlights the importance of following established protocols in governmental processes. While the reconciliation process aimed to promote unity, the situation serves as a reminder that effective communication and adherence to procedures are crucial in achieving such goals.
In a positive light, the Prime Minister’s willingness to recognize and apologize for the misstep may pave the way for improved cooperation among government officials in the future, ultimately enhancing the reconciliation efforts and fostering a more inclusive political environment in Fiji.
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