Fiji Labour Party Leader Mahendra Chaudhry has publicly defended his son, Rajendra Chaudhry, in light of his controversial social media posts that contained racist and hateful remarks aimed at prominent native Fijians and their chiefs. The posts, which have gone viral, targeted figures such as President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and notable chiefs Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, and the late Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, asserting their roles in historical political upheavals.
These offensive comments have sparked outrage among native Fijians and indigenous communities, particularly during a sensitive period marked by the mourning of the late paramount chief of Naitasiri. The comments have intensified racial tensions online, amplifying the community’s distress.
In a response to reporters during a visit to Labasa, Chaudhry emphasized that his son, who is living abroad, is exercising his right to freedom of speech, and that these views should not be conflated with the ideologies of the Labour Party. He stated, “Whether I agree or not, it doesn’t matter. But people who have suffered because of the actions taken by this chief. Let’s not put politics in it because there are two sides to a story. Right? And both sides must be looked at.”
Chaudhry also commented on Fiji’s political history, particularly in relation to the 1987 and 2000 coups and the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, noting that he has yet to review the commission’s report due to limited public information about its operations.
The situation reflects broader discussions around political discourse and the responsibilities of public figures in Fiji. As challenging as the circumstances are, they present a vital opportunity for dialogue about accountability and the effects of incendiary rhetoric in politics. Moving forward, fostering respectful communication could pave the way for healing and reconciliation among different community groups in Fiji.
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