The Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection in Fiji, Sashi Kiran, has voiced her dissent against calls to publicly identify those responsible for the country’s past coups. Kiran argues that emphasizing blame could hinder the nation’s healing process and reopen historical wounds.
In her response to various political figures and community groups advocating for accountability, Kiran highlighted the intricate nature of Fiji’s history, suggesting that the distinction between victims and perpetrators is often ambiguous. She pointed out that while some individuals are urging the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) to unveil those responsible for the coups, such actions would contradict the Commission’s core mission, which is to foster national healing.
Kiran also criticized the tendency to frame the coups solely as ethnic conflicts, referring to this perspective as both misleading and harmful. She recalled the historical context of coups in Fiji, with significant events occurring in 1987 and from 2000 to 2006.
“NGO Coalition on Human Rights has been saying that there’s no clear distinction between the perpetrators and the victims,” Kiran noted. She suggested a need to refocus on the TRC’s purpose, which is to bring forth pain and create a foundation for healing.
With the recent appointment of a new chair for the TRC, Kiran expressed optimism that the healing process would be enhanced. TRC Commissioner Sekove Naqiolevu stated that hearings are set to proceed until October, after which the Commission will draft its final report to present to the President in January 2027.
Naqiolevu emphasized the importance of establishing trust, encouraging individuals to come forward and share their stories without fear. This effort is vital for fostering social cohesion and aiding reconciliation, particularly for those who have borne the weight of their experiences for decades.
This approach underscores a hopeful commitment to understanding and healing, rather than division, as Fiji navigates its path towards a more unified future.