Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged concerns about the immunity provisions in the 2013 Constitution on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (FTRC) consultations, asserting that such provisions will not impede the process.
Rabuka highlighted the importance of these consultations in promoting national unity and addressing past political conflicts, and any implications related to immunity will be considered during the Constitutional Review process.
In a statement, Rabuka said, “The process of truth and reconciliation must run its course in seeking unity and reconciliation in Fiji. This is something that the country must, and should do.”
He reassured the public that the concerns regarding the immunity provisions would not halt the consultation process.
“When the matter of immunity is raised in these consultations and its implications on the immunity clause of the 2013 Constitution are evident, this will then be brought into the Constitutional Review process,” he added.
Rabuka’s comments come after a series of public consultations held in Labasa, Nausori, Lautoka, and Suva, where concerns about the immunity clause have emerged as a recurring theme.
These consultations have seen participation from former politicians, community and religious leaders, NGO representatives, and private individuals.
“I thank everyone who made the effort to attend these public forums, and I have noted the frank and genuine discussions that ensued.”
He also thanked assistant ministers Sashi Kiran, Sakiusa Tubuna, Lenora Qereqeretabua, Jovesa Vocea, and Ratu Isikeli Tuiwailevu—for their roles in advancing the FTRC’s work.
The government considers these consultations a crucial part of Fiji’s journey towards healing and reconciliation, especially given its history of political instability, marked by multiple coups that have affected the nation.
The FTRC Review Committee will continue to receive submissions on the establishment of the commission this week.
These submissions will help shape the FTRC’s framework and guiding its mission.
