There was no formal request submitted for the release of former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and convicted former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho to attend the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Reconciliation and Restoration program last Saturday. Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Jalesi Nakarawa confirmed that he had received no notification regarding a release request.
During the reconciliation event, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka mentioned that he had sought the release of the two individuals to participate in the ceremony. The program took place at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, Suva, involving the RFMF and the families affected by the November 2, 2000 mutiny. Notably, Shane Stevens, a former member of the RFMF Counter Revolutionary Warfare Unit and involved in the mutiny, was in attendance.
Mr. Rabuka expressed his desire for forgiveness regarding the past actions of various individuals, including George Speight and Admiral Bainimarama. He appealed to attendees to be patient as Bainimarama and Qiliho were expected to join the service later. Unfortunately, both individuals did not arrive, which led Mr. Rabuka’s protocol team to take action following his comments.
Mr. Nakarawa reiterated that without a formal notification, he could not authorize any release. He emphasized that the Corrections Service Act of 2006 stipulates that decisions regarding short-term releases fall under the Commissioner of Corrections’ jurisdiction. The act provides a framework for release under certain conditions, such as attending courses or facilitating the rehabilitation of prisoners.
This situation highlights the complex nature of reconciliation processes and the importance of institutional protocols within the corrections system. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to address historical grievances while emphasizing the need for structured communication and formal requests in facilitating such significant events.
In a hopeful light, the commitment to reconciliation shown during the ceremony represents a step toward healing and unity within Fijian society. The endeavor to bring together all parties involved, despite the procedural hiccups, indicates a willingness to move forward and rebuild relationships.
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