The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) is on track to finalize its work by February next year, according to Commissioner Sekove Naqiolevu. He mentioned that while the commission anticipates completing its tasks, it has the option to request an extension under the Commission Act. “Our report and recommendations will be submitted to the President of Fiji, aiming to inspire ongoing reconciliation and progress within the nation,” Naqiolevu conveyed.
Commissioner Rachna Nath noted that the TRC has been actively working for the past two years, which falls within the usual timeframe of three to five years seen in similar commissions worldwide. “Our team has been dedicated in establishing effective processes essential for our mission,” she said. Nath emphasized that should more time be necessary, they could extend the commission’s mandate for up to an additional year.
A significant moment took place when Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka addressed the commission, participating not as someone implicated in historical political turmoil but as a survivor of those events. Naqiolevu pointed out that all individuals who testify to the commission are considered survivors and witnesses of their experiences. “Prime Minister Rabuka shared insights regarding the challenges he faced during that turbulent period, which deeply impacted him and his family,” Naqiolevu remarked.
The TRC has also acknowledged its constraints with regard to addressing potential future political turmoil. Naqiolevu articulated that while the commission aims to promote healing and understanding, it cannot eliminate the possibility of future political conflicts. “There will always be political actors and factions aiming to change the system,” he stated. “Unfortunately, there are no guarantees in politics, whether in Fiji or anywhere else.”
In discussions on public inquiries, Naqiolevu highlighted that individuals have requested the commission to implement safeguards against potential future coups within the 2013 Constitution. However, he expressed doubts about the feasibility of such measures, noting, “We cannot legislate behavior.”
Commissioner Rachna Nath reinforced the TRC’s mission as a crucial step towards fostering deeper discussions about reconciliation in Fiji. “We are not here to solve all of Fiji’s problems but to spark essential conversations necessary for peace-building.”
The commission also revealed plans to introduce a new commissioner, with an official announcement expected from the President, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.
As the TRC nears its conclusion, there is an encouraging opportunity for community engagement that can cultivate ongoing dialogue and healing, paving the way for a more united and peaceful future for the people of Fiji.