By Sarah E. Treptow

Impunity Watch Reporter, Oceania

SUVA, Fiji – Lawyer Rajendra Chaudhry said the interim Prime Minister of Fiji, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama has been receiving the wrong advice from his associates and needs to hear the “bitter truth.”  Mr. Chaudhry said Bainimarama’s close associates are “political misfits,” including PM’s secretary Parmesh Chand, interim Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and People’s Charter lead advocate John Samy.

Mr. Chaudhry said the worst oversight has been not recalling Parliament to get out of the political impasse.  He highlighted this by saying, “Most importantly, the changes he is seeking requires major constitutional changes. How can that happen without a Parliament in place?” Bainimarama has previously said that before democratic elections can be returned to Fiji, these constitutional changes must take place.

Chaudhry believes Bainimarama’s various actions and inactions have breed uncertainty that has affected investments and jobs for the people of Fiji.  He suggests that Bainimarama get an independent group of advisors that will tell him what he needs to hear.

For more information, please see:

Fijilive – Fiji PM needs “bitter truth”: Chaudhry – 07 October 2008

Fiji TV – Chaudhry launches claims interim PM poorly advised – 29 September 2008