Parliament has passed into law the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Bill, marking an historic occasion for the Peoples Coalition Government in its 2 years in office.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, under standing order 51, introduced the Bill which will see the formation of a Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission designed to promote open dialogue, address historical grievances and foster national unity and reconciliation within Fiji.
Prime Minister Rabuka noted the committee's work on consultating with victims and perpetrators of various political events during its drafting process.
This of course which included discussions held with civil society organisations, faith-based groups, human rights advocates, media entities, political parties, and communities across the Northern, Western, and Central divisions.
The purpose of the Commision is to promote social cohesion through healing and reconciliation and facilitate open and free engagement in truth-telling regarding the political upheavals during the coup periods and to promote closure and healing for the survivors of these events.
This new Bill was passed after it received 30 votes for it and 15 votes against by Members of Parliament.
It will be known as the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Act of 2024.