Name the coup orchestrators: Seruiratu tells Parliament

Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has called for the identification of political figures who orchestrated Fiji’s coups, warning that without truth-telling, national reconciliation remains incomplete.

“Who are the figures behind 1987? Who are the figures behind 2000? Who are the figures behind 2006?” Mr Seruiratu asked Parliament yesterday during debate on the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ (RFMF) internal reconciliation process.

“In revolutions, the military is the means. Politics is the objective,” he said.

Mr Seruiratu, who lived through all three coup periods as an RFMF officer, said the military had presented its matanigasau (traditional apology) to the Great Council of Chiefs, but questions remained about civilian orchestrators.

“The Truth and Reconciliation Commission as currently being undertaken is concentrating on the victims and the reconciliation process rather than the truth-telling,” he said.

He urged RFMF personnel and released coup prisoners, including George Speight, to participate in the national Truth and Reconciliation process.

“If we do not address this issue now, when will we address it?” Mr Seruiratu said.

He expressed concern about the removal of summoning powers from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, stating the commission “does not have the power to summon but can examine witnesses under oath.”

Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua told Parliament the RFMF was undertaking structured internal consultations with personnel and families affected by events in 1987, 2000, and 2006.

Minister for Defense and Veteran Affairs Pio Tikoduadua in Parliament on December 3, 2025.

Photo: Parliament of Fiji

He said the military had acknowledged the Indo-Fijian community experienced substantial consequences from 1987, with many families facing prolonged uncertainty about safety and livelihoods.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka appeared before the commission on Friday, admitting he succumbed to pressure from influential figures to execute the 1987 coup, but did not name specific individuals.

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