UN to Examine Political Situation in Fiji

By Hayley J. Campbell
Impunity Watch Reporter, Oceania

SUVA, Fiji – United Nations Delegates arrived in Fiji today to begin a five day fact finding mission in hopes of facilitating Fiji’s uncertain path to establishing a more democratic and accountable government.

The UN discussions will focus on the political turmoil currently plaguing Fiji’s interim government. Last month, a Fiji High Court legitimized a 2006 military coup of Fiji’s Federal Government. The ousted SDL Party has expressed growing concerns that the interim government will not make good on its promise to restore democracy. Interim Prime Minister, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, has yet to relinquish power or hold democratic elections.

UN secretary general Ban Ki Moon dispatched the UN team which arrived in Fiji on Sunday. UN Political Affairs official, Tamrat Samuel was chosen to head the team.

The Fiji Times reports that the aim of the UN dispatch is to find “a mutually agreeable way forward on the political situation in Fiji.”

For more information, please see:
ABC Radio Australia – UN, Commonwealth to dispatch missions to Fiji – 21 November 2008

ABC Radio Australia – UN officials on research visit to Fiji – 24 November 2008

Radio New Zealand International – Party hails UN visit – 24 November 2008

Author: Impunity Watch Archive