Ex-Solomons combatants reconcile

Reconciliation between former militants in Malaita, Solomon Islands, reached Fadila community in the province’s northeastern region.

Former Malaita Eagle Force combatants from Fadila and their neighbouring highland communities took part in the ceremony.

Solomon Star reports that field mediator for Ward 10 Rex Funusulia conducted the ceremony.

Those that witnessed the occasion included Senior Peace and Reconciliation Officer Kemuel Laeta, Malaita Peace and Reconciliation Committee rep, Jackson Una, fellow field mediator for Ward 7 Garnet Kwanairara, chiefs, church leaders and the community.

"The purpose of the reconciliation was to heal wounds inflicted on the Fadila community by former combatants through harassments and intimidation," explains Mr Laeta. "This was during the aftermath of the ethnic tension. People shared their appreciation and gratitude to the national government and the Malaita Provincial for facilitating the ceremony through the work of their field mediator."

Funusulia said the success of the ceremony was a result of a long process of mediation where chiefs and church leaders were extensively involved.

Three other ceremonies in the northern region will be held during the first and second week of September 2008.