Inia Seruiratu, the Leader of the Opposition, has voiced significant concerns regarding the Prime Minister’s recent testimony before the Commission, stating it has left the public with more questions than answers. Seruiratu emphasized that instead of shedding light on critical issues, the Prime Minister’s statements seemed to divert attention towards personal stories while neglecting the pressing truths that the nation needs to address.
Acknowledging the challenging position of the Commissioners, Seruiratu underscored the necessity for deeper and more critical questioning during the inquiry. He remarked, “The absence of meaningful questioning of key figures leaves many feeling that an important opportunity has been lost.”
He stressed the importance of contextualizing Fiji’s political history, particularly regarding the coups of 1987, 2000, and 2006. Seruiratu believes that a better understanding of these events is crucial, especially when examining the decisions and actions of influential leaders and prominent witnesses who have played a pivotal role in shaping Fiji’s political landscape.
“This process is funded by the people of Fiji. They deserve transparency and honesty. They deserve to know who the real architects of the coups were—the planners, enablers, and influencers behind the scenes. Without this insight, reconciliation runs the risk of becoming meaningless, leaving the wounds of our communities unaddressed,” he stated.
The Opposition continues to advocate for a thorough and open investigation into Fiji’s coup history to ensure accountability and foster genuine national reconciliation. This call for increased transparency reflects a broader desire within Fijian society for clarity and healing regarding their tumultuous past.