Transcript
MUTUMA RUTEERE: There are still quite a number of issues, there are still quite a number of challenges, inspite of some of the progress that one can see is being made in addressing the problems.
SALLY ROUND: The Bainimarama Government has made much of its inclusive policies since its been in power, yet you have called for a national plan of action and comprehensive legislation. So is it a case of all talk and no action?
MR: The government has an inclusive policy, also policies in terms of affirmative action to provide support to all groups on the basis of means and also recruitment of officials on account of merit but it is a fact that racial discrimination persists and it's important to address this problem comprehensively through a national action plan. And it's important that this is supported by adequate legislation.
SR: So what is not being done enough of, in your view?
MR: One of the things that I did recommend is the need for legislation that specifically touches on the various aspects of the different forms of discrimination.have It is also important that government efforts as well as efforts by other actors are all pulling in the same direction and that is best done if you have a very comprehensive plan that actually brings in the individual sectors. The other thing that I did recommend is the need to collect the necessary data - the government suggests they are making progress and we don't have the data at the moment.
SR: You noted very strong hate speech and racial vilification in the media, parliament and the internet. Was that a surprise for you?
MR: No it was not a surprise. It is sadly a pattern we have seen in may parts of the world. In many places we have seen political actors, they are using the language of racial, racialised language, and also making inciting speeches. So it is not unique.
SR: In parliament MPs have been kicked out, or at least one has, because of so called hate speech. Do you think that is going too far?
MR: Well this type of action is probably going too far and again unfortunately I did not have the chance, to very comprehensively to look at the extent to which parliamentary rules allow for this or the extent to which the decision of parliament has the necessary independence and legitimacy. Overall my view has been that it's very important that any action with regard to those things is carried out by independent institutions, and institutions that enjoy legitimacy. If the institutions are not seen as independent, if they are not seen as fair, if they are not seen as enjoying legitimacy then that presents a challenge.