Parliament’s recent decision to create the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) aims to facilitate open discussions involving both victims and perpetrators. Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad emphasized this point at the launch of former Parliamentarian Harish Sharma’s memoir in Suva on Thursday.
Prof. Prasad highlighted that the TRC would thoroughly investigate the nation’s past tumultuous events and assist in closing the painful chapters of Fiji’s history. “I know that Mr. Sharma’s memoirs naturally detail what happened in 1987 and beyond,” he stated.
He acknowledged the efforts made so far, saying, “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.”
Additionally, Prof. Prasad noted that the Coalition Government aims to avoid repeating the governance mistakes of recent years. “We have liberated Fiji from media restrictions, suppression of free speech, and workers’ rights,” he said.
He also addressed the criticism directed at the Coalition Government, mentioning that while individuals are free to voice their opinions, many of the accusations are “malicious, defamatory, and at times quite hilarious.” However, he stressed that this does not mean the government will suppress freedoms.
“It is worth noting that the Coalition is the only post-election government that has lasted for more than a year after a change of government from one group to another, following a general election in our 54-year independent history.”