Former Minister for Sports Rajesh Singh has shared a poignant account of his family’s trials during one of Fiji’s most tumultuous eras—the 1987 coup. Speaking at the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Singh recounted the immediate fallout of the coup, which saw his father’s construction business collapse overnight, effectively shattering their family’s livelihood. Despite this devastating loss, Singh focused on the silver lining, stating, “When the coup happened, my dad lost everything… but he came home alive, and that was our blessing.”
During the upheaval, Singh’s father was in Namosi, where local landowners displayed remarkable bravery and solidarity, ensuring his safe return to Suva. This moment underscores the strength of community compassion that can flourish even amidst political strife. However, the family faced a grueling journey towards rebuilding their lives, with Singh recalling how he had to pawn his gold chain and sell roti parcels on the streets to make ends meet.
Throughout these hardships, Singh and his family embraced essential values such as the dignity of hard work, unity, and forgiveness. He reflected on how the coup temporarily fractured communities, yet the true resilience of Fiji lies in its people and their inherent kindness, transcending political and racial divides.
Decades later, Singh feels a strong urge to share his experiences to inspire younger generations in Fiji, emphasizing that the country’s future relies on compassion and understanding rather than division. This message of unity resonates with ongoing discussions about Fiji’s complex history and the enduring effects of the 1987 coup. It emphasizes that, even in adversity, the spirit of community and the relationships formed during such difficult times continue to influence Fiji’s societal landscape.
As the nation reflects on its challenging past, Singh’s story stands as both a personal narrative and a hopeful reminder that from the depths of despair can emerge resilience and mutual support, paving the way for a brighter future for all Fijians.