New Zealand Pressure On Fiji Must Remain Steadfast

The present stalemate in Fiji can only be resolved with the restoration of the Fijian constitution and the rightfully elected government returning to its position of legitimate authority says Hon Peter Dunne, United New Zealand leader.

"The Notice of Motion passed unanimously in Parliament yesterday is an unequivocal statement of New Zealand's position and must be steadfastly held to. While expressing confidence in the Fijian President, anything short of a return to the restoration of the legitimate democratic government will be unacceptable to the international community.

"The New Zealand response, both from parliament and the government is a sensible one which is entirely consistent with our concern for Fiji and its citizens.

"It is absolutely crucial that the diplomatic and political pressure continue to ensure the restoration of the democratically elected government," says Mr Dunne.

He says face saving solutions or compromises would be totally repugnant. If for example, the Fijian Prime Minister Mr Chaudry or his Government are driven out of office as part of any deal, then the New Zealand Government must express the strongest disgust at any such compromise.

"Not only is democracy at stake, but wider race issues. If the Notice of Motion passed by the NZ Parliament is to have any credence then the Government must not back any so called compromises and actually strongly condemn them through appropriately strong diplomatic and economic action.

"To do so would effectively condone politics at the barrel of a gun and give the thugs and criminal elements behind the coup legitimacy.

"The citizens of Fiji deserve nothing less than New Zealand sticking to the spirit of the Notice of the Motion and being prepared to take decisive and strong action to ensure Fiji does not become another East Timor or Bosnia," concludes Mr Dunne.

ENDS

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