By Sarah E. Treptow
Impunity Watch Reporter, Oceania

SUVA, Fiji – Commodore Frank Bainimarama says he did not overthrow the Qarase government in 2006 to seize power and remain in control.  He made it known to the Vice President of China Xi Jinping during a meeting that the military will only stay in power until all of its objectives are achieved.

Bainimarama explained, “The military, essentially assumed control of the Government with clear objectives to eliminate corruption, racial discrimination policies and practices, and to bring about necessary reforms in the area of public service, governance as well as the electoral system in an effort to build a better and more progressive Fiji.”

Bainimarama said Fiji will return to a system of parliamentary democracy, “the timing of which will be determined by the people of Fiji alone.”

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Jone Baledrokadroka, the former commander of the Fiji military land force says the military will remain a part of Fiji’s political landscape.  Baledrokadroka said the Government has been militarized at all levels, from ministerial positions to permanent secretaries in all departments.  He continued, “They’ve put people all over our Government. Now they’re talking about municipal councils. So it seems they have a plan to be in power.”

Fiji’s National Federation Party general secretary, Pramod Rae, says Fiji’s people are sick of uncertainty, so it is incumbent that the interim regime commits to a return to parliamentary democracy.

For more information, please see:
Radio New Zealand International – Fiji’s NFP says Forum 2009 deadline achievable – 10 February 2009

Islands Business – Military not power hungry: Bainimarama – 11 February 2009

Pacific Islands Report – Former Fiji Commander Says Military ‘To Stay’ – 12 February 2009

Fiji Times – ‘Hidden agenda’ in army call-up – 12 February 2009