A former Republic of Fiji Military Forces officer has broken his silence, offering an emotional apology as the country confronts the legacy of its political upheavals.
Retired Major Joseva Savua appeared before the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission earlier this week, calling for forgiveness and urging others to come forward.
“This time I just want to pass on to everybody who hears what I say, or if I ever did something wrong to anybody, I ask for their forgiveness,” Mr Savua said.
“I also want to pass on my congratulations and a big vinaka vakalevu to the military establishment for initiating reconciliation.
“They have taken a lot of burden off our backs, and it is good.
“Now, with this truth and reconciliation process going on, I hope that everyone will come forward and speak.”
His testimony comes as the commission continues private hearings with survivors from areas heavily affected since 1987.
A statement issued by the TRC said, “many shared accounts of physical, emotional and financial harm, describing fear, loss and uncertainty that still linger today”.
Despite the trauma, some survivors said they were open to reconciliation.
Survivors stressed fairness, equal treatment, and the need for education, dialogue and compensation to rebuild trust.
Across testimonies, a common message remains – the hope for peace, respect, and a future free from the divisions of the past.
