Tarakinikini tells Truth Commission: Fiji must confront its past

Former Republic of Fiji Military Forces officer and Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Filipo Tarakinikini, has told the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission that Fiji must confront its history honestly to move forward.

Appearing before the Commission in Suva, Mr Tarakinikini shared his account of Fiji’s political upheavals since 1987, focusing on the 2000 crisis and the pressures faced by the military during that period.

At the time, he was a Lieutenant Colonel in the RFMF and was involved in communications and negotiations during the crisis, balancing military command decisions with the responsibility of protecting lives.

His testimony highlighted the institutional strain and difficult decisions faced during one of Fiji’s most volatile periods.

Mr Tarakinikini said Fiji’s path forward required truth-telling, ethical leadership and shared responsibility across society.

“If Fiji is to move forward, the country must confront its history honestly, acknowledge the suffering experienced across communities, and commit to building trust through transparency and national unity.”

He also stressed the need to strengthen professionalism in the military and ensure national resources are managed responsibly.

The hearing also revealed the personal toll of the crisis on his family.

His wife, Amele Tabuya-Tarakinikini, told the Commission about the emotional and financial strain they endured, including years marked by fear, social isolation and hardship.

She said their children were also affected, with one daughter’s learning difficulties later linked to trauma experienced during that period.

“We made the decision to stay together and keep moving forward,” she said.

The Commission said testimonies such as this were critical in documenting Fiji’s history and advancing national reconciliation.

The Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission is mandated to examine past political upheavals and their impact, with a focus on truth-telling, healing and building national unity.