Vosayaco seeks reconciliation from Commanding Officer

Rupeni Vosayaco led more than 50 mutineers in the May 2000 coup at the Sukanaivalu Barracks in Labasa to overthrow the Commanding Officer Major Penasio Mamao.

Yesterday, after years of harbouring remorse and unresolved emotions, Mr Vosayaco and Major Mamao finally found closure.

The reconciliation ceremony, held at Sukanaivalu Barracks, was attended by Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Commander Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, who played a pivotal role in facilitating the meeting.

The 2000 coup, aligned with George Speight’s parliamentary coup, aimed to destabilize the Chaudhry administration. In January 2003, Mr Vosayaco was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment for his role in the uprising.

Last December, he was among 12 individuals granted a Presidential pardon.

“I asked for forgiveness and to accept me, my heart is free, and I don’t have any grudges. I’m free.”

Mr Vosayaco acknowledged for almost 24 years while in prison, his unlawful action haunted him with guilt and penitence.

He said all the military-led coups are wrong and must condemned.

Major-General Ro Jone personally encouraged the reconciliation between the pair.

Major Mamao said forgiving the ones who have caused harm is at least the simplest act a person can do as a gift from God, even though the events of the 2000s caused serious harm.

“I have forgiven him totally,” Major Mamao said.

“It has taken 24 years for us to meet again after the events of 2000.

“I’m very thankful for RFMF Commander for his effort for us to come back and reconcile and I totally forgive them for what he had done.”

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