Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has pledged to disclose the names of key figures behind the two racist coups he led nearly four decades ago to Fiji’s newly appointed Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
The Fijian government has confirmed the appointment of five commissioners to oversee the truth and reconciliation process, aiming to bring closure and healing to survivors of past political turmoil.
In an interview with fijivillage.com, Rabuka confirmed he would “voluntarily appear” before the Commission and hinted at being the first to testify, saying he would “lay the foundation of [the Commission’s] thought processes.”
However, when pressed on why he needed a formal Commission to reveal the truth about the coups he orchestrated, Rabuka remained tight-lipped, insisting Fijians would have to wait.
“I will not give it to you,” he told the media.
“I want the Commission to get that as an example of what people are prepared to come to them and talk about. You are just the press; [the Commission] is a national body. Do not try to promote yourself to be the decision-makers of the country.”
Addressing critics who argue the process is unnecessary given Fiji’s pressing economic and social issues, Rabuka dismissed concerns over costs, stating,
“This expenditure on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission will not be a big dent in the finances of the country.”
The Commission, chaired by Dr Marcus Brand, will investigate political upheavals, including Rabuka’s 1987 coups, George Speight’s 2000 putsch, and Frank Bainimarama’s 2006 military takeover.
Dr Brand, an Austrian peacebuilding and human rights expert appointed with European Union support, will lead the Commission alongside four local commissioners: former High Court Judge Sekove Naqiolevu, retired Fiji Airways pilot Captain Rajendra Dass, gender specialist Ana Laqeretabua, and human rights advisor Rachna Nath.
The Commission will undergo a two-week setup period, followed by a three-month preparatory phase to develop an operational framework. It will then conduct its investigations over 18 months before delivering a public report with recommendations.
“We understand this Commission is the culmination of years of discussion, debate, and controversy,” Dr Brand said at a press conference in Suva.
“Ultimately, we aim to help Fiji come to terms with its own history and move forward toward a better future.”
Dr Brand emphasised that the Commission will operate independently, engaging with government, civil society, media, and the broader Fijian public to encourage open dialogue and truth-telling.
“Our goal is not to deepen trauma but to provide a safe space for people to share their experiences, grievances, and concerns,” he said.
“The purpose is not to assign blame but to help the people of Fiji heal and reconcile.”
The formation of the Commission follows the passage of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Bill, a landmark initiative introduced under Standing Order 51 by Prime Minister Rabuka. The Bill aims to foster national unity by promoting open dialogue and addressing historical grievances.
The legislation passed with 30 votes in favour and 15 against, following extensive consultations with victims, civil society organisations, faith-based groups, human rights advocates, media, political parties, and communities across Fiji.
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