Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka introduced the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bill 2024 in Parliament on Thursday. This marked the bill’s first reading and was supported by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad.
As per Standing Orders 84(1), the bill has been officially introduced and will be included in the Order Paper for further consideration during a future parliamentary session. The Speaker, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, stated that the Prime Minister will announce when the second reading will take place and urged Members of Parliament to review the bill in preparation for the upcoming debate, which will focus on its principles and benefits.
The Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bill 2024 aims to create a Commission that encourages open dialogue, addresses historical grievances, and fosters national unity and reconciliation in Fiji.
The first clause of the bill details its title and commencement, stipulating that, if enacted, the new law will be effective on a date determined by the Minister and announced in the Gazette. Subsequent clauses define terms used within the bill, detail its provisions, establish the Commission with five members appointed by the President, and outline its functions and powers.
Additionally, a section empowers the Minister to create necessary regulations to fulfill the law’s objectives, and schedules included in the bill provide the Code of Conduct for the Commission and the oath or affirmation for Commissioners. The overall legislation falls under the jurisdiction of the Minister responsible for truth and reconciliation.