The Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, led a pivotal โtalanoa sessionโ on today 29 October, 2024, at the Force Training Group Duavata Hall in Nasinu. This gathering included former members of the Counter Revolutionary Warfare (CRW) unit, serving as a unique platform for open dialogue and reconciliation.
The โtalanoa sessionโ began with a sermon from the RFMF Padre Major (Maj) Reverend (Rev) Viliame Tunidau, aimed to foster an environment where all participants could express their emotions freely. While the discussions centered on the tumultuous events of 2000, the focus extended beyond that pivotal moment. Attendees were encouraged to seek forgiveness from anyone they felt had been wronged, addressing lingering grievances that had persisted for nearly a quarter of a century. This open exchange provided a long-overdue opportunity for healing and reflection.
As the session concluded, members of the RFMF presented the Fijian traditional protocol called โmatanigasauโ to the former CRW members. This gesture symbolized an earnest attempt to seek forgiveness for past actions and to welcome these individuals back into the RFMF family. The day marked an emotional step toward restoration of the camaraderie and brotherhood that once defined the RFMF prior to the challenges faced in 2000.
Overall, the session represented a significant move towards healing, unity, and the restoration of relationships within the military community, reinforcing the values of empathy and forgiveness that are crucial for any organization.
