Fiji’s Truth and Reconciliation commissioner Rachna Nath has given an assurance that people affected by the coups who come forward to tell their stories would be listened to and protected, and would not be punished.
Ms Nath told a commission community awareness program at the Fiji National University’s Nasinu campus earlier this month the restorative justice process was a safe place under section 16 of the Truth and Reconciliation Act.
“No evidence shared during the process can be used against you in any civil or criminal proceedings,” Ms Nath said.
“Whatever you say, whether in writing or in person, cannot incriminate you.”
Ms Nath said the only exception is intentionally providing false information.
She said the commission would recognise everyone affected as coup survivors, including those who may have caused harm.
“This process is about acknowledging our shared vulnerabilities, not labelling perpetrators.
“We all carry wounds from the past.”
Ms Nath reiterated that participation in the commission would be voluntary and that no one would be forced to share their story.
“Healing is a journey, and you will come forward when you are ready — whether that’s now, years from now, or not at all.”