Rabuka says 1987 actions were a “pre-emptive strike” to prevent wider unrest

1987 Coup rooted in indigenous concerns, says PM

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka told the Truth and Reconciliation Commission that the 1987 coups were driven by fears among indigenous Fijians. He said they were concerned about losing their political and social dominance. He said the upheaval was driven by ethnic concerns with many in the military and civilian population viewing the new government as […]

Rabuka says 1987 actions were a “pre-emptive strike” to prevent wider unrest

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka continued his testimony before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, reflecting on intelligence reports, rising ethnic tensions, and his justification for the 1987 military takeover. Rabuka said that before the coup, he had been informed of planned disruptions in major centres through reports from the Special Branch. He told the Commission that he recognised one of the individuals named in the reports. “I saw o…