On the 24th anniversary of the attempted mutiny at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka publicly acknowledged his role in the events leading to the 2000 incident, stating, “I bear the blame.” During his remarks, Rabuka expressed sorrow and sought forgiveness from the families of Counter Revolutionary Warfare (CRW) soldiers who lost their lives in the mutiny, linking the tragedy to the military unrest stemming from his actions on May 14, 1987.
Rabuka emphasized that the turmoil Fiji has faced, including actions by notable figures like George Speight and Admiral Voreqe Bainimarama, can be traced back to his decisions made over three decades ago. He reflected on his past leadership choices and their devastating impact on the nation’s history.
Furthermore, he extended his apologies to members of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), acknowledging the pain and suffering inflicted upon their families. In a moment of hope and healing, Rabuka expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission, an initiative aimed at addressing past grievances and fostering forgiveness within the nation.
This acknowledgment from Rabuka marks a significant step toward reconciliation and healing in Fiji, illustrating a willingness to confront the past openly. It presents an opportunity for collective healing and a path forward for the country as it seeks to unify and move beyond historical conflicts.
In summary, Prime Minister Rabuka’s public admission of responsibility provides a crucial moment in Fiji’s journey toward healing and reconciliation, offering hope that the nation can learn from its past and work together for a brighter future.
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