Peace at last for the Rawailebas
“Every commemoration day, we’re always filled with his huge loss, nothing seemed to have really healed despite the wreaths and embraces we get,” she said.
Wednesday 30 October 2024 | 11:38
Widow Salanieta Rawaileba with son Mulase Rawaileba on October 29, 2024. Photo: Ronald Kumar
Twenty-four years is a long time waiting for closure for the murder of her husband Lance Corporal (LCPL) Simione Rawaileba.
Yesterday, his family members finally found peace as former members of the Counter Revolutionary Warfare Unit (CRWU) sought reconciliation from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) and families affected during the 2000 mutiny.
His wife, Salanieta Rawaileba lost her husband during the mutiny between loyal soldiers and CRW members.
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They have five children, two are now in the military.
“Every commemoration day, we’re always filled with his huge loss, nothing seemed to have really healed despite the wreaths and embraces we get,” she said.
“I always know that we wanted someone to say sorry or at least own up to what had happened. Today, we received that healing.
“Nothing can compare that to people owning up to their wrongdoings and admitting their mistakes of the past.”
Ms Rawaileba was accompanied by her son Mulase, a soldier with the RFMF.
He was still in kindergarten when his father was killed at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks at Nabua, Suva.
“I had to control myself today. It has been a long time coming. God is a God of forgiveness, and this reconciliation is to heal everyone.
“I acknowledge the Government and the RFMF Commander for introducing such a programme because I don’t know what others might say, but we wanted this closure!”
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