The Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission conducted its inaugural consultation session, led by Assistant Minister for Women, Sashi Kiran, yesterday. The primary objective of these consultations is to establish the legal framework and foundational principles for the commission.
In September 2023, Parliament approved a motion to create the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, following which the Cabinet set up a steering committee comprising five appointed members.
Kiran addressed concerns regarding perceived delays in progress and acknowledged that fostering public discussion on this topic has taken time. “Over the past year, we have engaged with many of you individually and in small groups, which were held in safe spaces, away from social media and news outlets. These interactions focused on understanding people’s sentiments and determining our path forward, explaining the time it took to reach this stage,” she stated.
The Assistant Minister noted that the consultations yielded valuable insights from varied perspectives. She observed that the younger demographic, particularly individuals aged 35 to 40, often displays a lack of interest in the commission, with some advocating for reallocating funds to healthcare or other initiatives instead of pursuing this project. Conversely, older individuals, including those in their 50s, 60s, and 70s, alongside families affected by past events, expressed feelings of pain, trauma, and anxiety regarding the process.
Kiran emphasized that the framework’s development has been intentional, incorporating global principles while being tailored to the local context, with the assistance of a UN consultant. “Our aim is to be as inclusive as possible, ensuring we hear a diverse range of voices so that the framework addresses the needs of various segments of society. The ultimate goal is healing and closure.”
Later this week, consultations are scheduled with legal professionals and political parties, alongside a call for submissions and plans for a national consultation that will extend to the Western and Northern Divisions.