President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has expressed his admiration for the efforts of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission as Joaquim Da Fonseca officially took his oath of office as the new Chairperson at State House this morning. The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Cabinet Ministers, members of the Commission, and diplomats.
During the event, Mr. Da Fonseca recited both the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath for the Due Execution of Office, marking the beginning of his leadership in this crucial role. A highly regarded diplomat and advocate for peace, he brings over 20 years of expertise in reconciliation, transitional justice, and human rights, particularly in contexts emerging from conflict.
Mr. Da Fonseca has been instrumental in Timor-Leste’s truth and reconciliation process since 1999. His involvement includes early initiatives during the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor and the development of ongoing national reconciliation frameworks. His distinguished career also comprises significant diplomatic roles, including serving as Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom and the Netherlands from 2013 to 2019 and as the Ambassador and Permanent Representative to international organizations in Geneva from 2009 to 2013.
Additionally, he has held a position as Senior Advisor for Human Rights and Civil Society in the Office of the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, most recently acting as Coordinator and Senior Advisor at the National Commission for Reconciliation among Timorese, where he focused on addressing internal conflicts spanning from 1974 to 1999.
The Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which functions independently under the Truth and Reconciliation Act passed in December 2024, is tasked with promoting truth-telling, healing, and national reconciliation, particularly regarding the political crises that have affected Fiji since 1987. The Coalition Government has pledged to provide the necessary resources to support the Commission in fulfilling its important mandate, signaling a commitment to fostering a reconciliatory approach to the nation’s historical challenges.