The Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, described the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) as a beacon of hope that aims to uncover the truth and foster reconciliation to create a more equitable, peaceful, and prosperous future.
During a workshop for the TRC, Kamikamica emphasized that the Coalition Government has supported the establishment of the Commission from the start to reflect on the tumultuous periods of 1987, 2000, and 2006, ensuring that such events are not repeated.
He stated that the process is not intended to assign blame or foster division but to recognize the injustices that have occurred and to give those affected a platform to be heard and validated. Kamikamica stressed the importance of learning from the past to avoid repeating historical mistakes as a means to build stability and genuine democracy.
Kamikamica noted that the TRC can serve as a vital mechanism for addressing the enduring impacts of conflict, injustice, and human rights violations, providing a structured approach for truth-telling, healing, and reconciliation. He highlighted that public hearings, investigations, and reports by the TRC would illuminate darker periods in history, amplifying the voices of those who have endured suffering.
Acknowledging the challenges faced in the TRC’s work, he noted that it often encounters resistance from those hesitant to confront the truth or who wish to preserve the existing order. He called for the cooperation of all societal sectors, including the government, civil society, and the public, to support this initiative.
Kamikamica underscored that the success of the TRC is not assured; it relies on the commitment of all stakeholders to engage sincerely and be open to change. He emphasized the need for the Commission to operate independently, impartially, and free from political interference, along with a true dedication to justice, human rights, and progress.
He concluded by urging collective efforts to ensure that the TRC’s work goes beyond symbolic acts and instead represents a significant move towards justice, healing, and peace, ultimately influencing the future alongside addressing past wrongs.