Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged that his office did not adhere to the proper procedures when seeking to involve former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and ex-Commissioner of Police Sitiveni Qiliho in the recent reconciliation event held at Queen Elizabeth Barracks. This event took place last Saturday.
During the ceremony, Prime Minister Rabuka expressed his wish to President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere for both Bainimarama and Qiliho to be allowed to attend the reconciliation process. Rabuka reportedly asked the event organizers to pause proceedings on two occasions until both figures arrived, as they were en route. Unfortunately, neither Bainimarama nor Qiliho was able to participate.
Rabuka later issued an apology to Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, indicating that the situation was not a planned part of the agenda. The Prime Minister acknowledged that he should have directed his request to Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, the Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service. He opted to send a note to the President instead, as he did not see the Commissioner present at the event.
He further recognized that the President lacked the authority to release Bainimarama and Qiliho from prison for the reconciliation ceremony, thereby causing a time constraint that prevented their attendance. “We had tried but could not make it happen,” Rabuka stated.
This incident highlights the complexities surrounding diplomatic and reconciliation efforts in Fiji and the importance of following appropriate channels in government communications. As the nation continues to navigate its political landscape, this situation serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for collaboration and understanding between different factions in pursuit of unity and healing.
In a positive light, the willingness of the Prime Minister to address the mistake openly and his acknowledgment of the need for proper protocol reflects a commitment to transparency and improvement in governance. This could lay a stronger foundation for future reconciliation efforts.
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