Secretary-General condemns the military takeover in Fiji Islands

I deplore the actions by Commander Bainimarama and the Fiji Royal Military Defence Force in placing the democratically elected Prime Minister of Fiji Islands under house arrest, and assuming executive control of Fiji.

This is a clear attack on the democratically elected Government of Fiji, and a serious violation of shared Commonwealth values and principles. On behalf of the Commonwealth family of nations, I utterly condemn the military's action, which represents a threat to democracy everywhere.

This is an unpopular coup: the events in Fiji over the last few days have taken place despite regular calls for restraint and strong opposition within Fiji, especially from traditional leadership such as the Great Council of Chiefs, civil society groups, senior members of the civil service, churches, trade unions. The Military has disregarded the efforts of the Great Council of Chiefs to facilitate dialogue and promote peace in Fiji.

The Commonwealth - and other members of the international community like the United Nations and the European Union - have in the past weeks expressed serious concerns over possible moves by the military to remove by force the democratically elected Government. This action can only undermine the stability, economic and social progress of Fiji.

I have been in contact in the last few hours with Foreign Minister Tavola and the Speaker of Parliament, Pita Nacuva. I am seeking to make further contact with Prime Minister Qarase. I have also been in contact with the Commonwealth Chair-in-Office, the Prime Minister of Malta, Dr Lawrence Gonzi and the Chairman of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG), Foreign Minister Dr Michael Frendo of Malta.

I expect the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) will now meet this week to discuss the situation in Fiji, and consider appropriate action.

The Commonwealth calls for urgent and full restoration of democracy and the return of civilian rule as soon as possible. The Commonwealth - and members of the international community and countries in the Pacific Region - will continue to provide support as appropriate to ensure this is pursued and achieved as soon as possible.

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