A member of the security forces walks past an Israeli police station in Sderot after it was damaged during battles to dislodge Hamas militants who were stationed inside, on 8 October 8, 2023. Photo: RONALDO SCHEMIDT / AFP
Former Fiji prime minister Frank Bainimarama says the country's intervention at the International Court of Justice on the Israel-Gaza issue betrays Fiji's legacy as peacekeepers.
Paul Reichler, an attorney representing Palestine at the ICJ revealed this week that Fiji and the United States - the only nations - to defend Israel's occupation of Palestine.
Bainimarama said Fiji's stance "insults the intelligence of every Fijian".
The former prime minister and military commander said that position undoes Fiji's long-standing commitment to neutrality, peacekeeping, and the principles of self-determination and decolonization.
"The coalition government's claim that the occupation of foreign territory by Israel is legal - an argument not even advanced by Israel itself - reveals a disturbing truth that Fiji's voice to the world is hostage to a demented few who are hellbent on destroying our national reputation," he said in a statement on Wednesday.
Fiji Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama speaks at the UN General Assembly in New York in September 2022. [File] Photo: AFP / Bryan R. Smith
"This action contradicts our firm stance on the rights to independence and statehood, rights we have championed for our Pacific brothers and for all colonial peoples.
He said Fiji has stood with Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Kiribati, and others in their pursuit of independence.
"We must ask ourselves: with what credibility will we support the independence of territories like New Caledonia and French Polynesia? We must not be selective in our support for statehood and independence.
"Our actions today will define our legacy and our ability to lead in the Pacific and beyond.
"The world should know that the vast majority of Fijians stand on the side of peace. That is our national character and that is the spirit in which we offer our service on the frontlines of conflict zones around the world."
A supporter of Israel holds an Israeli flag in front of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, DC, on 8 October. Photo: JULIA NIKHINSON / AFP
'Profoundly troubling' - human rights coalition
Fiji's human rights coalition has condemned the Fiji government's decision at the ICJ.
The group said the country's "position is profoundly troubling and starkly contrasts the values of justice, freedom, and international law that the Fijian people hold dear".
"The public has a right to understand how such positions, which significantly impact Fiji's standing on the global stage and its moral compass, are determined.
"We call upon the government to disclose the rationale and any consultations or analysis that led to this stance," they added.
The coalition said it wants the Fiji government "to reconsider its position".
"We urge the Fijian government to demonstrate its commitment to human rights and justice by advocating for the rights of all people, including the Palestinian people, to live in peace, security, and dignity."