The Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma is emphasizing the need for healing and forgiveness, as conveyed by Assistant General Secretary Reverend Anil Reuben. He calls for a collective effort to move forward and expressed his thoughts in light of the proposed establishment of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Reverend Reuben, whose family was affected by the coups of 1987 and 2000, highlighted the significance of expressing one’s truth before moving past the pain.
Reverend Reuben remarked on the lasting impact of the coups, particularly the 2000 coup, which he noted altered the perspectives of many iTaukei individuals. He expressed optimism that the truth and reconciliation process will help those in pain. He mentioned his personal feelings, saying, “I am hurt by the individuals responsible, not by my mataqali’s children. We grew up like sisters and brothers, but I am angry with those who have passed away.”
He acknowledged the difficulty of forgiveness but stressed the importance of sharing experiences. “Truth and reconciliation will bring out the hurt, and someone needs to listen. When someone speaks out, their pain is expressed. I still feel that much of the hurt remains hidden,” he added.
Encouraging Indo-Fijians to share their experiences, Reverend Reuben said it is essential to let go. He recounted instances of families in Baulevu fleeing their homes at night to avoid danger, highlighting the ongoing pain in the community. He reiterated his belief that truth and reconciliation could foster joy and transform Fiji’s outlook.
A public consultation on the establishment of the Commission is scheduled for today at the Civic Centre in Suva, starting at 9 a.m.