Thursday, 7 August 2025: In a significant step toward national healing and inclusive dialogue, the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission (FTRC) will host a community awareness session this Saturday, August 9, at the Fiji National University Nasinu Campus, Suva from 2pm to 5pm.
FTRC chairperson Dr Marcus Brand said the Commission is here to serve the people of Fiji.
“It can only succeed if the public understands its purpose, feels safe to come forward, and has confidence that their voices will be heard. That’s why outreach sessions like this one in Nasinu are so important. They help ensure that this process is inclusive, transparent, and truly national in character.
“This Commission does not belong to government or to any one group. It belongs to all the people of Fiji. Its strength depends on public trust, which can only be built through transparency and participation,” he said.
Reconciliation begins when people feel safe to speak and confident that their truth matters, Dr Brand says.
“The work of the Commission is not about the past alone. It is about shaping a more just and united future for all.
“This Saturday’s engagement in Nasinu is just one of many steps we are taking to meet communities where they are, to answer questions, build understanding, and ensure that no voice is left unheard.
“We know that for many, the wounds of the past remain unhealed.”
Dr Brand highlighted that this process invites survivors and communities to come forward not in fear, but with dignity, and to help build a shared historical record for future generations.
Meanwhile, community awareness sessions are also scheduled to take place in Lautoka and Nadi on August 23.
About FTRC:
The FTRC is an independent entity set up for truth-telling, reconciliation, and national healing. The mandate of the FTRC is to examine past political upheavals and their impact on people’s lives. The Commission is looking at the physical and emotional harm, loss of life and property, and systemic injustices on people.
The purpose of this work is to foster unity and social cohesion in a society where everyone feels safe, equal, included and able to thrive. The Commission seeks to honour the lived experiences of survivors by providing a platform for voices to be heard, validated, and acknowledged.
The Commission emphasises that truth-telling is not about retribution. It is about recognition, healing, to ensure that history is not repeated. Through reconciliation, the Commission aims to build a stronger, more just, and peaceful Fiji for future generations.
Note: The Commission is encouraging members of the public to contact us in relation to any of the above. We look forward to hearing from you.
Reach us by phone, email, or through our Facebook page, where a contact form is also available.
Phone: 9909003
Email: comms@fijitrc.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FijiTRC
Source: Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission
Media Queries Contact:Maria Vula
Communications Specialist
Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission
M: +679 9909003
