President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission as its new Chairperson, Joaquim Da Fonseca, formally took his oath of office at State House earlier today. The event was marked by Mr. Da Fonseca reciting both the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath for the Due Execution of Office, with witnesses including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, various Cabinet Ministers, members of the Commission, and representatives from the diplomatic corps.
Mr. Da Fonseca is a seasoned diplomat and peace-builder, bringing over two decades of extensive experience in reconciliation, transitional justice, and human rights, particularly within post-conflict environments. His involvement in Timor-Leste’s journey toward truth and reconciliation dates back to 1999, where he played a crucial role in early initiatives under the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor. His contributions have significantly shaped national reconciliation mechanisms that persist to this day.
Throughout his career, he has held several prominent diplomatic roles, including serving as Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom and the Netherlands from 2013 to 2019, as well as Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva between 2009 and 2013. Additionally, he has been a Senior Advisor for Human Rights and Civil Society in the Office of the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, and most recently, he worked as Coordinator and Senior Advisor at the National Commission for Reconciliation among Timorese, focusing on addressing internal conflicts from 1974 to 1999.
The Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission operates autonomously under the Truth and Reconciliation Act, which was passed in December 2024. The Coalition Government has pledged to ensure that the Commission is sufficiently resourced to fulfill its vital role in truth-telling, healing, and national reconciliation concerning the political upheavals experienced since 1987. This commitment reflects a broader dedication to fostering unity and addressing historical grievances within Fiji, setting a hopeful tone for the nation’s future.
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