Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka presented the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bill 2024 in Parliament on Thursday, marking its first reading. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, seconded the motion. According to Standing Orders 84(1), the Bill has been read for the first time and will be included in the Order Paper for a future second reading. Speaker Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu indicated that the Prime Minister will notify Parliament regarding the date for this second reading. He encouraged members of Parliament to take the opportunity to review the Bill ahead of the debate, which will concentrate on its principles and merits.
The Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bill 2024 aims to create a Commission to promote open dialogue, address historical grievances, and foster national unity and reconciliation within Fiji. Clause 1 outlines the short title and commencement of the legislation, which will take effect on a specified date if approved by Parliament. Clause 2 defines key terms used in the Bill, while Clauses 3 and 4 outline the legislation’s provisions and its binding nature on the State.
The Bill establishes a Commission consisting of five members appointed by the President and outlines its functions and powers in Clauses 5 and 6. Clause 21 empowers the Minister to create necessary regulations to implement the legislation’s aims. Schedules within the Bill detail the Commission’s Code of Conduct and the oath of office to be taken by its Commissioners. Oversight of the new legislation falls under the Minister responsible for truth and reconciliation.