REPUBLIC of Fiji Military Forces Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai says the military will never be able to replace what has been lost.
While presenting a matanigasau (traditional apology) during the 24th anniversary of the attempted mutiny of the Queen Elizabeth Barracks, Maj-Gen Kalouniwai said the military could only work to repair the severed relationships caused by the events of November 2, 2000.
He said the RFMF would continue to work together to restore people’s faith in the military.
Maj-Gen Kalouniwai recalled the day of the mutiny when the leadership of the RFMF was questioned.
“Our young people were discouraged. They questioned the leadership and were in search for the right people to lead them,” he said.
“They wanted to know who could lead them and their families.”
The RFMF Commander pleaded for the forgiveness of the CRW soldiers who lost their lives during the attempted mutiny.
“For too long you have been crying.
“For too long you have been searching for a solution to the problems that affected you on this day, 24 years ago.
“We come with our heads bowed asking for your forgiveness from the pain caused by our leaders in the military.”
Among the CRW and RFMF soldiers who were killed during the attempted mutiny were Selestino Kalounivale, Jone Davui, Epeneri Bainimoli, Lagani Rokowaqa and Iowane Waseroma.
