By Ryan L. Maness
Impunity Watch Senior Desk Officer, Oceania

SUVA, Fiji – Despite the interim government describing ousted Prime Minister Lasenia Qarase’s allegations of treason as a political “gimmick”, several organizations have called for the civil complaint to be taken seriously.  These organizations which range from international non-governmental organizations to Fiji’s Human Rights Commission, express the sentiment that the letter of the law requires that the police investigate the allegations.

Dr. Shaista Shameem, chairperson of Fiji’s Human Rights Commission, said that just because the ousted PM filed the claim, that should not stop the police from investigating.  She also emphasized that Qarase’s right to file such a complaint is protected under Fiji’s Constitution.  However, unlike others who have weighed in on this issue, she does not believe that police commissioner Commodore Esala Teleni needs to step aside in order for the investigation to proceed.

The Pacific Centre for Public Integrity, which had previously called for police action, reiterated its call today with harsh language. Peter Waqavonovono, the organization’s campaigner, said that Teleni’s stance toward the treason allegation was “a slap in the face of the justice system and is a violation of the rights of citizens.” Waqavonovono added that the Attorney-General’s claim that an investigation could not be conducted due to the pending case of Qarase v. Bainimarama was “legally incorrect, and a blatant attempt to subvert justice.”

The Citizen’s Constitution Forum also added its voice to the chorus, with its director Reverand Akuila Yabaki saying that the law was clear that an investigation was appropriate

For more information, please see:
Fiji Daily Post – Treat complaint seriously: PCPI – 12 September 2008

FijiVillage – Teleni Should Allow Treason Investigations-CCF – 12 September 2008

Radio Australia  – Fiji police must investigate alleged treason: Commission – 08 September 2008