In response the the Fijian coup, the Pacific Islands Forum established a Joint Working Group on the Situation in Fiji. Back in April, they commissioned an independent assessment of an election timetable for Fiji. Now that group has reported back. While there's a lot of work that needs to be done before Fiji can hold free and fair elections - most notably, a census needs to be taken and electoral boundaries adjusted - they believe that, with the right assistance, an election could be held as early as November 2008.
The New Zealand government has responded by asking the Fijian government to commit to report's proposals, but I think we need to do more. Specificly, we should make it clear that if the Fijian regime commits to holding early elections, we will provide the funding necessary to make them happen. It's not the optimum solution - ideally I'd like to see the junta prosecuted for treason - but it may be the best way to peacefully restore democracy.
1 comments:
At first we heard that state had no problems with Qarase's movements. Then now AG's office will appeal against the order allowing Qarase his freedom. Then you have FICAC investigating Qarase which is not constitutionally recognised. Invoking international convention is deemed tresonous act but coup is not which gets presidential pardon. Personally, I believe Qarase committed lesser crime and deserves a priministerial pardon you know what I mean.
"I must be dumb and blind but that is my problem"
Posted by Anonymous : 6/11/2007 10:36:00 PM
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