The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) must mirror Fiji’s diverse population to ensure justice and meaningful reconciliation. Litiana Lagibalavu, representing the Alliance for Future Generations, emphasized the need for the TRC to include individuals with a wide array of skills, expertise, and backgrounds to effectively carry out its mandate.
Ms. Lagibalavu voiced the aspirations of Fiji’s youth, expressing a desire for the TRC to shed light on the country’s history without merely reopening past wounds. She advocated for a thorough and truthful account of history to avoid repeating past mistakes and to amplify the voices of those who have been marginalized and oppressed.
“We also hope to see the voices of the marginalized and oppressed heard, perhaps for the first time,” Ms. Lagibalavu stated. “As young people, we value justice and fairness, and we believe everyone in Fiji deserves to have their story told accurately.”
She underscored the necessity of utilizing both in-person and virtual engagement methods to connect with younger populations who primarily engage online. “The goal should be to offer those who have suffered in silence a chance to be heard, thus restoring dignity and justice,” she added.
Furthermore, Ms. Lagibalavu urged that the TRC’s findings should lead to significant societal changes, including governance reforms, enhancement of inter-ethnic relations, and addressing issues related to colonization and displacement.
She expressed hope that the commission would pave the way for Fiji to progress toward unity and equality, providing closure for individuals and communities impacted by past injustices. “We, the youth of Fiji, are filled with hope for what this commission can achieve on a personal level; we hope for closure, not just for ourselves, but for our parents, our grandparents, and all those who have suffered in silence. Collectively, we hope that the commission will help us build a stronger, more united Fiji.”