Sakiusa Tubuna, the Assistant Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, has emphasized that the primary goal of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) is to foster healing, reconciliation, forgiveness, and trust in order to enhance social cohesion and unity within the nation.
The Commission, led by Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, and supported by committee member Tubuna, held discussions with political parties in Suva yesterday. The Cabinet has endorsed the committee’s mission to develop the legal framework necessary for the TRC.
Tubuna explained, “The essence of the TRC’s formation is to aid those who have suffered in finding healing and closure through sincere and complete reconciliation with their perpetrators.” Kiran added that the Commission aims to provide closure and answers regarding past events, with the hope that future generations will learn from past mistakes.
Acknowledging the complexities involved, Kiran noted that different stakeholders articulate various traumas and conflicts that need addressing.
During the consultations, several key concerns emerged, particularly regarding legal definitions within the draft framework and the necessity for a fair and just approach to ensure accountability. The credibility of the TRC process was also questioned, with emphasis on the need for transparency to build trust, especially as it relates to addressing historical grievances. Discussions highlighted the importance of the Commission’s independence from the Government, ensuring that it operates impartially, allowing for all voices to be heard and justice to be pursued equitably.
Additionally, senior members of media organizations participated in a consultation regarding the draft of the legal framework for the Commission, contributing their feedback on the proposed provisions.