Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has expressed that the review of the Constitution and the establishment of the Truth & Reconciliation Commission (TRC) can be undertaken simultaneously without wasting valuable time.
His remarks came in response to comments made by two Opposition Members regarding the long-discussed constitutional review during a recent parliamentary session. Viliame Naupoto suggested that efforts to set up the TRC should be paused until the constitutional review is complete. In contrast, Inia Seruiratu argued that the establishment of the TRC should take precedence so that citizens can understand who was behind the coups.
“Should we waste valuable time getting embroiled in this academic argument or should we get going by pursuing both the tasks simultaneously?” Chaudhry questioned. He noted that the idea of a TRC was initially proposed by many citizens following Rabuka’s first coup in 1987 and was reiterated after the coup in 2000.
According to Chaudhry, both coups were rooted in racism, causing significant harm to race relations in Fiji and hindering national progress. He pointed out that the ongoing consequences are evident in the widespread poverty, unemployment, homelessness, and various forms of social and economic deprivation affecting many in society.
Chaudhry insisted that the TRC should be prioritized and not delayed under the rationale that it can wait until after the constitutional review. He emphasized that any delays in improving race relations could diminish public confidence in the nation’s future.
He stressed the necessity for the TRC to receive constitutional recognition to effectively fulfill its mandate and called for a practical legal framework to allow its establishment and functioning while the constitutional review is underway. Chaudhry highlighted that time is of the essence for the government to address these critical issues before the next elections.
He urged Prime Minister Rabuka to find the capacity to tackle these pressing matters at home, warning that negligence could have serious repercussions for the nation and its people.