Prominent figure Surendra Lal has asserted that Fijians of Indian descent in Labasa were specifically targeted during the coups. Speaking at the Truth and Reconciliation steering committee’s consultations in Labasa, Mr. Lal highlighted that these individuals faced threats and mistreatment, leading to a loss of trust in the disciplined forces.
He noted, “The canefarmers were the main targets in 1987,” explaining how they were forcibly taken from town and made to march barefoot to a camp. Mr. Lal expressed that they deserve an apology for the treatment they endured at the hands of these forces and mentioned, “We haven’t heard them saying they will reconcile with those affected by the coups. We have lost faith.”
In response, steering committee chairperson Sashi Kiran emphasized that the upcoming commission will address grievances from all ethnicities in the country, aiming for a collective healing process. “All ethnicities will be able to come to the commission and have their voices heard,” Ms. Kiran affirmed. She also clarified that the focus of the process is on national reconciliation rather than on individual complaints.