Parliament’s establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) aims to facilitate truth-telling from both victims and perpetrators. Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad made these remarks during the launch of former Parliamentarian Harish Sharma’s memoir in Suva on Thursday.
Prof Prasad emphasized that the TRC would thoroughly investigate the nation’s tumultuous history and assist in bringing closure to the difficult periods in Fiji’s past. He noted that Mr. Sharma’s memoirs highlight events from 1987 onwards.
“Much has and is being done. And much can and will be done. The road ahead will not be easy. The difference is the past was fraught with danger. Now the future of freedom, hope, and glory beckons,” he stated.
Additionally, Prof Prasad remarked that the Coalition Government is committed to avoiding the governance issues that plagued Fiji in recent times.
“We have liberated Fiji from media restrictions, suppression of free speech, and workers’ rights. This newfound freedom has allowed people to openly criticize and accuse the Coalition Government on various issues,” he explained.
“While some of these criticisms are malicious, defamatory, and at times quite amusing, it does not mean that the Government will restrict freedoms.”
He also highlighted that the Coalition is the first post-election government in Fiji’s 54-year independent history to remain in power for over a year following a change of government through a general election.