The chairperson of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission steering committee, Sashi Kiran, has indicated that the government could owe millions of dollars to victims impacted by past coups if it chooses to offer compensation.
Kiran highlighted that compensation for victims has been a significant topic of discussion in the establishment of the commission. She noted that the lasting repercussions of such events could amount to millions due to the severe consequences experienced by many families, which include loss of homes, economic hardships, and emotional distress.
“The primary reason for proposing the formation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission was to facilitate healing and provide closure,” she explained. However, she added that no financial compensation could fully restore what victims have lost or alleviate the difficulties they have endured over the years.
Kiran referred to the severe emotional trauma resulting from incidents such as the burning of homes and sexual violations, emphasizing that the emotional pain remains a critical area of focus for the commission. She stated that the overarching goal of the commission is to prevent the recurrence of past mistakes.