Naqiolevu steps in as Acting FTRC chair after Marcus Brand’s exit

Commissioner Sekove Naqiolevu has assumed the role of acting chairperson of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission (FTRC) following Dr Marcus Brand's departure.

Speaking to this masthead yesterday, Mr Naqiolevu confirmed the Commission's work continues without disruption despite the leadership change.

"I'm acting chair at the moment. We are continuing the work and moving on regardless. Good people like him, good staff," he said.

Dr Brand resigned for personal health and family reasons, with the Commission set to welcome a new chairperson next week.

Mr Naqiolevu said President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu will announce the new appointment.

"The president has appointed someone, I understand. He's about to announce somebody, I hope. It's before him now to make that announcement," he said.

Dr Brand was farewelled at a dinner hosted by EU Ambassador Barbara Plinkert and German Ambassador Andreas Prothmann this week.

The Commission recently held high-level hearings, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka's appearance on Friday.

Mr Naqiolevu assured the public that Dr Brand's departure would not affect the Commission's mandate to examine political upheavals from 1987, 2000, and 2006.

Mr Naqiolevu is a former High Court Judge.