Prime Minister Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka has welcomed the public response to the public consultations that have begun on the framework of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission (FTRC).
Honourable Rabuka stated that the attendance of former politicians, community and religious leaders, NGO representatives and private individuals at the public consultations held last week in Labasa, Nausori, Lautoka and Suva confirms the need for open and frank discussions about the political upheavals of the past.
“I thank everyone who made the effort to attend these public forums and I have noted the frank and genuine discussions that ensured,” said Prime Minister Rabuka.
“I also thank Hon Sashi Kiran and her supporting Assistant Ministers of Hon Sakiusa Tubuna, Hon Lenora Qereqeretabua, Hon Jovesa Vocea and Hon Ratu Isikeli Tuiwailevu for progressing this very vital work.” Regarding questions raised in news reports about the implications of the immunity provisions of the 2013 Constitution on the work of FTRC, Prime Minister Rabuka stated that such implications do not necessarily affect or deter the consultation process.
“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. The outcome of the current consultation process will shape the FTRC.
“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.”
Ends.