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Commonwealth Secretariat press release

Commonwealth Secretary-General on Latest Political Developments in Fiji Islands

3 July 2000

The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Don McKinnon, today made the following statement on the naming of a civilian cabinet by the military regime in Fiji Islands. The statement was made in the course of discussions with Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), who are meeting at their annual summit in Canouan, St Vincent and the Grenadines:

I have seen reports that the military regime in Fiji Islands has nominated a civilian administration.  While I can appreciate the concern of Commodore Bainimarama to address his country's problems in a comprehensive manner, the Commonwealth still expects a government formed through the exercise of the democratic choice of the people in accordance with their constitution and the rule of law.  I therefore urge Commodore Bainimarama and the new administration to secure the immediate release of hostages, reduce the period of 18 months announced for the interim administration and take urgent steps to restore democracy and constitutional rule to Fiji Islands.

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