An academic from the University of the South Pacific, Rajendra Prasad, has asserted that no amnesty should be granted to individuals engaging in political activities that may lead to instability in Fiji. During a public lecture, he noted that previous amnesty had been given to those responsible for political unrest from 1987 until the implementation of the 2013 Constitution.
Prasad expressed his hope for a successful reconciliation process, emphasizing that the concepts of amnesty are rooted in both past and current constitutions. He stated, “I don’t believe any appointed truth commission can operate beyond the Constitution.” He underscored the importance of the phrase “never again,” highlighting the need for a focus on preventing further political upheaval.
Drawing attention to Fiji’s turbulent history, Prasad pointed out that the nation has faced significant challenges. He reflected on prior attempts at reconciliation, recalling that a truth and reconciliation process was absent during earlier constitutional frameworks, notably the racially divisive 1990 Constitution imposed by the military. Although the subsequent 1997 Constitution was an improvement, it still fell short of perfection.
Prasad noted that optimism existed in the 1997 Constitution, with people believing events from 1987 would not be repeated. He hopes to see a similar optimism with the current commission preventing future instability. He emphasized that while amnesty has been granted up to the 2013 Constitution, a key outcome of any truth and reconciliation processes should be that future political activities leading to instability do not receive amnesty.
“We cannot keep digging up old wounds and expect them to heal. We are a small country, and we need to move forward,” he said. Prasad believes this moment represents a significant opportunity, but stresses that clear communication regarding the commission’s structure, language, powers, and future direction is essential for the population of Fiji.