In a recent statement, Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu addressed the political turmoil that Fiji has experienced over its 54 years of independence, attributing it to a “culture of convenience” wherein the military has often been manipulated as a tool for political agendas. This commentary followed a report from The Fiji Times on the National Security and Defence Review (NSDR), which indicated that the immunity clauses in the 2013 Constitution have fostered a culture of coups, negatively impacting Fiji.
Mr. Seruiratu expressed that many believe a better constitution can resolve Fiji’s issues, but he argued that this belief is misguided. He highlighted that the temptation of convenience drives individuals and groups to take shortcuts for their political and personal benefit. He lamented that soldiers, some of whom lost their lives, have become mere instruments in this cycle of manipulation.
As Fiji moves towards reconciliation, Mr. Seruiratu emphasized the need for reform. He referenced the NSDR report, which pointed out the public’s trust issues with military and state institutions. Acknowledging this challenge, he stressed the importance of confronting the root causes of these problems by allowing those involved in past political upheavals to share their perspectives, including individuals connected to the coups of 1987 and the events of 2000.
“The truth is essential for our liberation,” he stated. Mr. Seruiratu believes that without confronting the truth, efforts at healing will merely scratch the surface while deeper issues remain unaddressed. He asserted that discussions about revising the 2013 Constitution should wait until after a national truth and reconciliation process.
He underscored that Fiji’s challenges stem more from the egos of those who feel marginalized by the democratic process than from constitutional issues. He provided historical examples of previous upheavals where new constitutions included immunity provisions to shield those responsible from legal consequences.
Through the truth and reconciliation initiative, he urged for open and honest dialogue to cultivate better understanding in communities and to eradicate the negative aspects of Fiji’s past. Mr. Seruiratu concluded by stating that this effort is vital for the future of Fiji’s children and generations to come, calling for committed leadership from all community sectors to make it happen.
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