The Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma’s Assistant General Secretary, Reverend Anil Reuben, has called for a collective effort towards healing and forgiveness. He made these remarks in light of the proposed establishment of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission, expressing a deep need for the nation to move forward together.
Reverend Reuben’s perspective is particularly poignant, as he and his family were affected by the coups in 1987 and 2000. He emphasized the necessity of sharing one’s truth to overcome past pain. “The turmoil in Fiji, notably during the coups of 1987 and 2000, has left lasting impacts, particularly on the mindset of many iTaukei people,” he noted.
Despite his personal grievances, he delineated that his anger is directed towards the individuals responsible for the pain, rather than towards those in his community. “I grew up with those close to me as if we were siblings, but I still carry resentment towards those who have caused us harm,” he commented. He stressed the importance of allowing others to hear these experiences, asserting that the process of truth and reconciliation is crucial in airing out concealed pain.
Encouraging Indo-Fijians to share their stories, Reverend Reuben believes now is the time for healing. “Many families in Baulevu would spend nights hiding in bushes, only to return home safely during the day due to raids. The hurt from such experiences is still prevalent. I am hopeful that truth and reconciliation can foster joy and transform Fiji’s perspective,” he stated.
A public consultation regarding the formation of the Commission is scheduled for today at the Civic Centre in Suva, starting at 9 AM.