The Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, emphasized that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) offers hope as a platform for uncovering truths and fostering reconciliation aimed at building a more equitable, peaceful, and prosperous future.
During the TRC Workshop, Kamikamica highlighted that the Coalition Government has consistently advocated for the formation of the TRC to reflect on the troubled periods of 1987, 2000, and 2006 to ensure that such instances are not repeated.
He clarified that the initiative is not about blaming individuals or creating divisions, but rather about recognizing past wrongs and providing a room for victims to be heard and acknowledged.
Kamikamica stressed the importance of learning from history, insisting that failing to do so jeopardizes the prospects of achieving stability and genuine democracy.
“The TRC holds the potential to address the remnants of conflict, injustice, and human rights abuses, offering a structured environment for truth-telling, healing, and reconciliation,” he stated.
He continued, “Through public hearings, investigations, and comprehensive reports, the TRC illuminates the darker segments of our history, amplifying the voices of those who endured suffering.”
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the TRC, Kamikamica noted that it often encounters opposition from those apprehensive about confronting the truth or maintaining existing power dynamics. He urged collaboration across all societal sectors—government, civil society, and the general public—to support this initiative.
The Acting Prime Minister also warned that the success of the TRC is not guaranteed, relying heavily on the commitment of all involved parties to participate with sincerity, transparency, and openness to change.
He insisted that the Commission must operate independently and without political influence, along with a genuine commitment to justice, human rights, and progress.
“Let us collaborate to make this process more than a mere formality, but a significant stride towards justice, healing, and lasting peace. This endeavor is not only about reconciling the past; it is fundamentally about shaping our future,” Kamikamica concluded.