Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acknowledged a misstep in the process of involving his predecessor, Voreqe Bainimarama, and former Commissioner of Police, Sitiveni Qiliho, in a reconciliation event held over the weekend at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks. During his speech at the ceremony, Rabuka explained that he had asked President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere for their release from the Fiji Corrections Service so they could participate in the proceedings.
The Prime Minister revealed that he had requested the event organizers to delay the start twice, expecting both Bainimarama and Qiliho to arrive shortly. However, neither attended. He also extended an apology to the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, acknowledging that their participation was not included in the official program.
Rabuka admitted that his request should have gone through the proper channels, specifically to Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, the Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner. Instead, he reached out to the President, not realizing that the President didn’t have the authority to grant their release from imprisonment for the event, leaving little time for coordination.
Despite this setback, there remains a sense of hope for future reconciliation efforts as the Prime Minister expressed his team’s willingness to explore alternative solutions for including all parties in similar initiatives going forward. This may lay the groundwork for fostering dialogue and healing within the nation.
In summary, the Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of the procedural error highlights the importance of communication and coordination in national events, promoting a path towards inclusivity and understanding among Fiji’s leaders.
Leave a comment