The NGO Coalition on Human Rights in Fiji has condemned the Coalition Government’s planned move to officially open a Fijian embassy in Jerusalem, saying it aligns Fiji with “genocide” and “apartheid” policies in Gaza.
A delegation, comprising Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Minister for Information Lynda Tabuya, and Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua, along with other officials and their spouses, is expected to travel to Israel later this month for the embassy opening.
In a strongly worded statement released today titled “Not In Our Names”, Coalition Chair Shamima Ali criticised the decision as morally reprehensible and politically irresponsible, especially given the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
“The Coalition Government appears to be callously ignoring the unfolding famine and mass starvation in Gaza that is being deliberately orchestrated by the state of Israel,” Ms Ali said.
She also criticised Fiji’s defence of Israel at the International Court of Justice earlier this year, where South Africa brought a case alleging genocide.
“Prime Minister Rabuka, Lynda Tabuya and Pio Tikoduadua have made rather unconvincing arguments regarding the opening of a Fijian residential embassy in Jerusalem amid the unfolding genocide in Gaza.”
Mr Rabuka has previously described the embassy move as an act of building “a bridge” with Israel.
The NGO Coalition said such a move would damage Fiji’s global image and alienate those who do not support the current government’s stance.
“Whether they like it or not, in the eyes of the world, Fiji will be seen as a country that supports the apartheid and pariah state of Israel, and its genocide in Gaza.”
She emphasised that the decisions do not reflect the views of all Fijians.
“The NGO Coalition on Human Rights reiterates its ‘NOT IN OUR NAME’ opposition to Fiji’s defence of Israel at the International Court of Justice. and declare our strongest NOT IN OUR NAME opposition to the establishment of the Fijian Embassy in Jerusalem.”
