Fiji People Must Decide Our Future

19th September, 2000

FIJI PEOPLE MUST DECIDE OUR FUTURE

The people of Fiji must be allowed to decide our future, says Minister for Information Ratu Inoke Kubuabola.

Kubuabola was commenting on former Chaudhry Government Minister Dr Tupeni Baba¹s comments in the media today.

He said Dr Baba¹s solutions for Fiji will only result in more turmoil rather than achieve any good. "If any disturbances resurfaces, the people of Fiji will suffer, not CMAG or the European Parliament.

Ratu Inoke said it seemed that Dr Baba has still not grasped the extent of Fijian disatisfaction with his government.

"Baba¹s government in 12 months frightened Fijians, refused to listen to advice including threats to itself and indulged in nepotism and unprecedented arrogance," Kubuabola said.

Ratu Inoke said the country was saved after the events of May 19th by the intervention of the Great Council of Chiefs and the security forces. This contained the spreading violence and brought back law and order to the country.

He said the interim administration derives its legitimacy from the Great Council of Chiefs which is now the constitutional authority in Fiji.

Kubuabola said the interim government is working towards reconciliation, economic recovery, and the restoration of democracy. "This is what the people of Fiji want - not an unstable government."

"The people of Fiji want to move ahead, decide on their future themselves and look to a bright future for themselves."

"We should have genuine self-rule. It is time for us to assert our sovereignty and frame a better future for all our people."

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