Fiji has been experiencing what has been termed a ‘culture of convenience,’ according to the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Inia Seruiratu. He noted that this trend involves individuals or groups taking shortcuts for personal or political gain. His comments were made in response to findings from the Government’s National Security and Defence Review (NSDR).
The NSDR report revealed a significant lack of trust in both the Fiji Police Force and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF).
During his comments, Mr. Seruiratu mentioned the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), emphasizing its potential to allow the RFMF to disclose the circumstances surrounding past coups. He advocated for a platform where those involved in these political upheavals could share their narratives, including those recently released from incarceration for the 2000 coup events and military personnel affected at the Queen Elizabeth and Sukanaivalu Barracks.
He stressed the importance of considering the experiences of those involved in the coups of 1987 as essential for achieving truth and reconciliation. Mr. Seruiratu, who has a background with the RFMF, remarked, “Without the truth being told, it would be a case of brushing cobwebs when the spider continues to loom far and wide.”
In terms of constitutional matters, Mr. Seruiratu asserted that discussions regarding the review of the 2013 Constitution should commence only after the TRC process is concluded in an authentic manner. He pointed out that Fiji’s challenges stem not from the Constitution itself but from the ambitions of certain individuals or groups feeling marginalized by the democratic process, leading them to orchestrate coups for personal motives.
He noted that past events, such as those in 1987, mandated changes to the 1970 Constitution, while the events of 2000 and 2006 led to the replacement of the 1997 Constitution. In each instance, the resulting new constitutions included provisions for immunity, safeguarding the initiators of these significant disturbances.
Mr. Seruiratu concluded by emphasizing that meaningful leadership and a collective commitment from various sectors—including political and community leaders, chiefs, religious figures, and the business community—are vital to successfully navigate these challenges.
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