Let’s End Politics Of Hate, Says Konrote
President Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote says fear- mongering, communalism, and politics of hate must end this very moment.
He made the statement when he opened the new Parliament in Suva yesterday.
Mr Konrote told MPs “that back- ward way of thinking has no place in this august House.
“I warned earlier this year, when we were still undertaking preparations for this election, that we would most certainly be tested during the campaign. I warned that it would be tempting to descend into demagoguery, and that we must rise above that temptation by challenging and con- testing the election on the basis of policies and principles – and truth,” he said.
“And I warned against race-bait-ing, appeals to ethnic identity and any efforts to divide our people by telling lies about individuals, communities, or even entire groups of our fellow Fijians.
“It pains me to say that some parties and politicians failed to heed my warnings. Quite unfortunately, we saw our political discourse descend into that dangerous and hateful rhetoric on many occassions, particularly on the topic of indigenous
rights. Again, little was said in the way of truth. Most of the rhetoric was designed to stoke fear, sow divi- sion and fuel unwarranted animosity, and our nation and our people have suffered immensely for it.
“All of you have sworn solemn oaths or affirmed your allegiance to defend our democracy. You have sworn to protect our Constitution, the very document that allows you to come into this Parliament and grants you the privilege of speaking on behalf of our citizens.”
Edited by Naisa Koroi
