Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says he believes the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission will help move Fiji forward, acknowledging both perpetrators and victims of past political upheavals.
Speaking during his appearance before the Commission, Rabuka said Cabinet had agreed with the Minister for Women and Social Protection to table a motion in Parliament supporting the creation of the new reconciliation body.
Rabuka said he does not know exactly how the process will impact the country, but he is confident it will open a path toward healing.
“I really believe that it will move the nation. What good? How? I don’t know. But it is an opening for us — for those involved, perpetrators and victims, those who have suffered.”
He emphasised that the Commission must consider not only direct victims, but also the many people indirectly affected by Fiji’s periods of political turmoil.
“There are many collateral victims of the events,” he said, acknowledging the far-reaching emotional and social consequences of past conflicts.
Rabuka concluded by thanking the Commission and expressing hope that the process will give all affected communities a chance to speak and be heard.
