Comrades in arms: Rabuka and Bainimarama share moment of unity at UNAMI event

Applause echoed through Albert Park in Suva yesterday as Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka invited his predecessor, Voreqe Bainimarama, to the front of the tent to cut a cake commemorating the return of Fiji peacekeeping soldiers who served under the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI).

Bainimarama had been seated on the tent floor among the soldiers when he was called forward. The moment was marked by smiles, a handshake and a hug before the cake was cut.

It was only the second public interaction of its kind between the two leaders. The first occurred in 2018 at Rabuka’s home village of Drekeniwai in Navatu, Cakaudrove, where a traditional welcome ceremony was held for the Bainimarama government during an official visit.

That earlier handshake was widely seen as a gesture of reconciliation after years of political rivalry.

Yesterday, Bainimarama said the invitation reflected comradeship, noting that both men were former soldiers.

“I think that’s the reason why he invited me up there, to meet once again,” Bainimarama said.

“I don’t know why there should be bad things about it. Everything should be good, that we all met as former commanders and former officers, especially with the rest of the troops here.”

Cabinet Ministers present included Acting Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga; Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Sakiasi Ditoka; Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs Pio Tikoduadua; Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services Penioni Ravunawa; and Acting Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service Auta Moceisuva.

Minister for Policing and Communications Ioane Naivalurua and Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander Major-General Jone Kalouniwai were seated on the right side of the tent, while Minister for Immigration Rear Admiral Viliame Naupoto stood at the rear.