Shamima Ali, coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, expressed her hope that the upcoming hearings of the Truth & Reconciliation Commission will reveal the individuals behind the coups that have profoundly affected Fiji. During a consultation at the Suva Civic Centre, she shared her curiosity about the identities of those responsible, highlighting the numerous names that have circulated without any clarity.
Ali noted that while some individuals have faced imprisonment for their roles in the coups, many others have not been held accountable. She emphasized her desire to uncover the truth behind these events, especially since some alleged coup supporters seem to have gained from the turmoil and are now in influential positions enjoying their status.
She also advocated for the inclusion of British representatives in the commission’s deliberations. Ali raised questions about whose version of the truth would be examined, emphasizing the complexities of reconciliation within different segments of society. She expressed disappointment that colonial powers, including the British, have not been part of the ongoing discussions regarding accountability.
The human rights advocate believes that open, sincere dialogues are essential for bringing closure to the families of victims and survivors of violence.