Rev Reuben Calls for Healing, Forgiveness
"Due to all the troubles in Fiji, especially the 1987 and 2000 coups, the 2000 coup was particularly impactful and changed the mindset of many iTaukei people," Reverend Reuben said.
Thursday 29 August 2024 | 15:45
Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma Assistant General Secretary Reverend Anil Reuben. Photo: Leon Lord
It is time to heal and forgive.
This is the message from the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma Assistant General Secretary Reverend Anil Reuben as he called for a focus on healing and forgiveness.
He urges that it is time to move forward together.
Related stories
Reverend Reuben shared this in response to the proposed establishment of the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission. He and his family are among those who were affected by the 1987 and 2000 coups.
However, Reverend Reuben emphasised the importance of speaking your truth before letting go of the hurt.
"Due to all the troubles in Fiji, especially the 1987 and 2000 coups, the 2000 coup was particularly impactful and changed the mindset of many iTaukei people," Reverend Reuben said.
He expressed hope that truth and reconciliation will aid those who are hurting.
"I am only hurt by the individuals responsible, not by my mataqali's children. We grew up like sisters and brothers, but I am angry with those who have passed away," he added.
"Sometimes it is hard to forgive people, but it is important for others to hear our experiences. Truth and reconciliation will bring out the hurt, and someone needs to listen. When someone speaks out, their pain is expressed. I still feel that much of the hurt remains hidden."
The Wailevu Division in Vanua Levu during the Methodist Church Conference Festival of Praise 2024 Diamond Jubilee at the Vodafone Arena in Suva on August 28, 2024. Photo: Leon Lord
Letting go
"As an Inda-Fijian, I encourage IndoFijians to come forward and speak up," he said.
Reverend Reuben believes it is time to let go.
"I know some families in Baulevu who would leave their homes at night to hide in the bushes, only returning during the day. People would raid their homes at night and take whatever they wanted," he said.
"So, the hurt is still there. I believe that truth and reconciliation will bring joy and change Fiji's outlook."
The public consultation on the establishmentof the Commission will be held at the Civic Centre in Suva today from 9am.
Feedback: wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj
