2000 coup survivor, Simione Qiolevu says reconciliation must go beyond forgiveness, calling for justice, understanding and the rebuilding of trust within communities and across the nation.
Qiolevu has highlighted this as he recounted his unlawful arrest and mistreatment in Labasa during the 2000 political upheaval in Fiji.
He shared his story with the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission during a hearing before Chairperson Joaquim Da Fonseca and Commissioner Ana Laqeretabua in Lautoka.
Qiolevu shared his experience of being detained without charge, subjected to severe physical abuse and held in inhumane conditions before his release.
He says this left deep and enduring psychological scars that has affected his health, family life and overall well-being.
He says to him healing and reconciliation means being able to live without the fear and pain of the past controlling his life.
Qiolevu says this means that the truth about what happened is acknowledged, that victims like himself are heard and understood, and that there is a genuine effort to prevent such events from happening again.
Qiolevu says what would help him move forward is knowing that history, and the stories of others who suffered, are recognised.
He says support for victims, acknowledgment of their experiences, opportunities for open dialogue, and counselling would help restore some of the pieces that were lost.
Under the FTRC Act 2024, the Commission facilitates access to trauma support services, including faith-based or pastoral support, counselling, translators, sign language interpreters, or other support mechanisms for survivors.
As a survivor, his reflections also pointed to a broader vision for the country, one grounded in dignity, hope, and a return to normalcy for those affected.
He further says there needs to be stronger system of accountability for those who commit acts of violence during political or social unrest.
He stresses that so one should be above the law and those responsible must be held accountable.
Qiolevu adds that it is also important to have proper support systems for victims, which includes access to counselling, legal assistance and programmes that help families recover emotionally, mentally and socially from traumatic experiences.
