Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has stated that the review of the Constitution and the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) can proceed simultaneously, avoiding unnecessary delays. His remarks followed a discussion in Parliament where two Opposition Members addressed the well-publicized review of the Constitution last week.
Viliame Naupoto suggested that efforts to set up the TRC should be paused until after the Constitution has been reviewed. In response, Inia Seruiratu insisted that the TRC should be prioritized to allow the public to identify those responsible for the coups.
Chaudhry questioned whether it was worth wasting time on a purely academic debate, suggesting instead that both initiatives should move forward together. He noted that the concept of a TRC was initially proposed by many citizens following the first coup led by Rabuka in 1987, with similar calls made after the coup in 2000.
He characterized these events as racist coups that have severely harmed race relations in Fiji and hampered the nation’s advancement. The ongoing effects are evident in the widespread issues of poverty, unemployment, and homelessness facing many citizens.
Chaudhry argued that the TRC should take precedence and not be delayed until after the Constitution is reviewed. He warned that prolonging efforts to improve race relations would diminish public confidence in the country’s future.
He also mentioned that while the TRC needs constitutional backing to function effectively, a practical legal framework is necessary to facilitate its establishment and operations during the constitutional review process. He emphasized the urgency of addressing these matters, urging Prime Minister Rabuka to take action or risk significant consequences for the nation and its people as elections approach.