This week we’ve heard of what had happened to the victims of the May 19, 2000, political crisis.
How innocent farming communities in Muaniweni, Naitasiri and Dawasamu in Tailevu suffered when rebel supporters burned down their houses, looted their farms and took whatever they could lay their hands on.
It was not only that – there were also reported cases of assault, rape and even murder in other parts of the country.
It was one of the country’s darkest hours and if it was not for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), we would not be where we are today.
The Great Council of Chiefs then was divided as some members had gone ahead to support the rebel cause.
The RFMF had to step in to ensure that law and order were maintained. Our soldiers and police officers manned checkpoints set-up around the country on a 24/7 shift to ensure the safety of all citizens.
These men and women braved those trying conditions and their lives were constantly in danger when armed rebel supporters and notorious criminals went on with their business.
At times it made one wonder what would have happened if rebels led by coup frontman George Speight had their way in 2000? It’s frightening especially when we were witnesses to many of the terrible happenings that had transpired then.
This is no laughing matter or something to be used as a political ploy to gain votes for the general election.
The events of May 19, 2000, should not be forgotten altogether but instead we should reflect on what had happened and how we together as a nation stood our ground to overcome the power of evil.
It’s important that we learn from what had happened and remind our children that this should not happen again.
This also goes to many rebel supporters, who later came to the realisation that they had been manipulated by failed businessmen, church ministers and corrupt politicians who were basically there for their own agenda.
One of the seven gunmen who stormed Parliament on the morning of May 19, 2000, Maciu Navakasuasua can vouch for that – as he and hundreds of these men were used and when they failed to execute what they had set out for they were literally dumped.
It was a sad sight to see many of these villagers struggle financially to make their way to Suva to attend their court hearings and they would sleep on the streets or whatever they could rest for the night before they head back home.
And while these were happening those who had instigated the chaos went about with their elite lifestyle, turning their backs on the very people they had used.
This should not happen again. We’re now on a new journey and we should stand together as one to ensure that the events of May 19, 2000, are not repeated again.LEONE CABENATABUA
Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj