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Prasad has power to reconvene
Monday, March 05, 2001

Interim president Ratu Josefa Iloilo does not hold the power to reconvene parliament, according to the 1997 Constitution.

The document which was revalidated by the Court of Appeal ruling on March 1st last week states that the powers to reconvene are in the hands of the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

The death of former Speaker, Apenisa Kurasiqila means that the power to reconvenve parliament is now in the hands of his deputy, Gyannendra Prasad.

Prasad, a parliamentary member of the Labour party says he is mindful of the responsibility.

"There may be pressure on me to reconvene parliament but I will decide on what's in the interest of the people of Fiji," Prasad said in a Fiji One televsion interview.

Motion for Chaudhry's removal
Monday, March 05, 2001

A motion was passed at today's Fiji Labour Party parliamentary caucus meeting for the removal of Mahendra Chaudhry as party leader.

Although it was not on the agenda, FLP member Haroon Ali Shah moved a motion to dismiss Chaudhry as leader.

Shah said the motion to dismiss Chaudhry was based on public opinion of Chaudhry.

Shah said Chaudhry's reputation was very poor in the public's eye.

He also added that since the party intended to approach interim president Ratu Josefa Iloilo for a government of national unity, Chaudhry would have to be dismissed.

Chaudhry's earlier statements to the media had shown that he would step down from the leadership role if a GNU was to be formed.

Party member Krishna Datt said the GNU will include multi-party cabinet system.

"Mr Chaudhry is on record of having said that if there is a government of national unity in which there are people with whom he won't be very comfortable with, he will step aside," Datt said in an interview with Radio Fiji.

"Theoretically a government of national unity will involve other members of the house who qualify," he said.

Datt added that the party would have to look for a new leader if that happens.

Meanwhile acting Fiji Labour Party leader, Dr Tupeni Baba was held and questioned by the police for close two hours this afternoon.

Police spokesperson ASP Sera Bernard said Dr Baba was held in for questioning for breaching the public order which they say is still in place under the emergency decree.

Bernard said according to the emergency decree any gathering of people cannot take place without a permit.

Dr Baba held for questioning
Monday, March 05, 2001

Acting Fiji Labour Party leader, Dr Tupeni Baba was held and questioned by the police for close two hours this afternoon.

Police spokesperson ASP Sera Bernard said Dr Baba was held in for questioning for breaching the public order which they say is still in place under the emergency decree.

Bernard said according to the emergency decree any gathering of people cannot take place without a permit.

Meanwhile Isireli Vuibau the assistant Fijian affairs minister of the deposed government, has refuted media reports that deposed prime minister Mahendra Chaudhry remains the FLP leader.

Sex Crimes in Fiji

Sahara Fiji - http://www.saharafiji.bigstep.com/generic.jhtml?pid=7

The Sex Crimes
Much was heard about sex crimes during the political crisis. While some women chose to visit the Parliamentary complex and engage in sexual activities (reports and evidence of which emerged during the Parliament clean up), Indo-Fijian women made victims in the rural areas were forced.

During sprees of thuggry and violence in the rural areas many rural women were gang raped, had to suffer attempted rape or were threatened with abduction. Many families stopped sending their daughters to school due to security reasons and men of the family hesitate to work the fields leaving their daughters and wives behind at home.

A 62 year old Tailevu woman had to be admitted with broken ribs and serious injuries to her arms and legs after being gang raped by youths in her family home of more than 40 years. She has not been home since.

She told SAHARA volunteers from her hospital bed how she pleaded with the 'boys'and likened herself to their grandmother but she was very violently abused, beaten and raped.

The sad thing is that this incident can be blamed on the inaction of the authorities. The same 'gang' had earlier violently robbed the couple and was reported to the police. Police had questioned the 'gang' and let them go. The 'gang' had reportedly gone back to victimize the couple for reporting to the police.

Another Tailevu grandmother was gagged, trampled upon and left covered with mud, tied up in the kitchen, while her 19 year old grand daughter was dragged into the bedroom and left with a broken jaw, bruised and injured. Only the two of them were home when the incident happened. When the family members later took the victims to the hospital, they were given paracetamol and sent home.

A Muaniweni 27-year-old, mother of three suffered attempted rape in front of her one-year-old son while her husband was badly beaten up. The victim pleaded with one of the perpetrators who was known to the family and instructed others to leave her after much intimidation.

A young mother was raped in North as she was threatened by thugs putting a knife to her eight-year-old daughter's throat. Another family of North was forced into giving household items and livestock as the thugs threatened of abducting an eight year old child.

Most of the victims reported that they knew or could recognize the criminals. In majority of the cases no one was at hand to save the women.

A mother of two was raped in her compound by three men in Sigatoka while another retired teacher was raped in the same area and physically assaulted losing a chunk of hair from her head. Her husband was also very badly bashed. Both the women have since left the country.

A 70-year-old woman was threatened of rape in October in the Northern Division and asked to leave the leased land prematurely.

A school student was threatened of rape and saved by cane-cutters in Tavua while another teenager attacked in her house was saved by her father in the same district.

Many such stories have been told to us, some very gruesome, violent and unbelievable that fellow humans can stoop so low. Many cases have not been reported to police, as the victims do not have faith in justice system. Others do not report for the fear of further humiliation and victimization.

The animalistic and cruel behavior sees no age barrier as women with age more than 60 and as young as eight years old have been victimized. Scattered houses in the settlements make it difficult to provide safety and security to each other. It is also culturally not appropriate for the Indo-Fijian community to speak about the crimes. One elderly businessman we met in a rural area said " We have suffered a lot, some of it difficult to talk about, such crimes are best not discussed as the more we talk about it the more humiliated we get".

These acts have instilled fear in the women and families in the rural areas; fear for the security of their daughters, some have stopped sending their daughters to school.

Sex crimes committed have a huge impact on the woman, her family and her future. An Indo-Fijian victim may be humiliated all her life because of the forced act she had to suffer. The victim generally has very low self-esteem and becomes victim of life.

Not many of the criminals who committed the crimes have been brought to justice instilling further fear in the hearts of the victims.

There is urgent need for mobile counseling and medical units as these victims are not able to visit counseling centers in the central areas. Many of them do not even realize they need counseling. Families members also do not encourage counseling as the 'talk will get out' is an issue. However mobile counseling and medical teams will be able to assess and provide much needed counseling and medical treatment.

SAHARA deplores such acts of human rights violations. In partnership with other organizations it is trying to organize mobile counseling and medical teams to visit the affected areas Any help in this area will be appreciated.

Fiji Cops Raid Political Meeting
The Associated Press, Mon 5 Mar 2001

Sunday March 4 5:36 PM ET
No Comment From U.S. on Russia Embassy Tunnel Claim

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney (news - web sites) said on Sunday he couldn't say whether the United States built a secret tunnel under the Soviet Embassy in Washington, which officials believe was revealed to the Russians by the FBI (news - web sites) agent arrested last month on charges of spying for Moscow.

But while declining to confirm a report by The New York Times, Cheney said he believed there were grave implications to the case of accused spy Robert Hanssen, who may have caused considerable damage to U.S. security.

``I believe so,'' Cheney told the CBS ``Face the Nation'' program. ``I assume, given the nature of his responsibilities and the length of time he worked for the Russians, which looks like about 15 years, that in fact it was very serious.''

A spokeswoman for the FBI also declined to comment on the report, which cited current and former intelligence officials as saying the tunnel operation, run jointly by the FBI and the National Security Agency, was revealed to Moscow by Hanssen.

Cheney said that if the report were true he ``couldn't talk about it anyway,'' but an assessment would have to be made to determine the full extent of the damage caused by Hanssen.

``Then we'll have a good fix on exactly how much was in fact compromised,'' he said.

The secret tunnel operation was reportedly part of a broad U.S. effort to eavesdrop on Soviet -- later Russian -- facilities and personnel operating in the United States, the Times said.

Cheney told CBS the United States had not heard from the Russians about the revelation. ``Not in any official sense, no,'' he said.

Current and former U.S. officials estimated the tunnel construction and related intelligence-gathering activities cost several hundred million dollars, apparently making it the most expensive clandestine intelligence operation Hanssen is accused of betraying, the Times said.

The tunnel was reportedly designed as part of a sophisticated operation to eavesdrop on communications and conversations in the Soviet Embassy complex, which was built in the 1970s and 1980s.

The U.S. government has never publicly disclosed the existence of the tunnel, but in an FBI affidavit in the Hanssen case, the government said that Hanssen ``compromised an entire technical program of enormous value, expense and importance to the United States government.''

U.S. News & World Report magazine reported in its March 12 issue, published on Monday, that officials blamed Hanssen for compromising at least two highly sensitive FBI counterintelligence programs.

Hanssen, arrested on Feb. 18, has been accused of spying for Moscow since 1985. He has been accused of giving Moscow secrets that included names of double agents, as well as U.S. electronic surveillance methods.

Military denies Fiji Times story; FT inciting violence

People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands - 4 March 2001 

The Fiji Military Forces has denied that it stated that Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry was a threat to national security.

Yesterday the Fiji Times, in an article written by Margaret Wise, reported that the Military stated that it viewed Chaudhry as a threat to national security.

Today the Fiji Sun quotes the military's spokesman, Captain Ned Taito as saying that the Fiji Time story was "misleading". He also stated that the military had not made any statement on this.

Cpt Taito stated: "We cant understand how a paper can go and publish a story without an official spokesperson's statement. We have at no stage had meetings, issued releases or told someone that Chaudhry is a threat to national security."

It is believed that many of the Fiji Times stories are written or contributed to by Jioji Kotobalavu, the Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister's office. Over the weekend, Fiji Times reporter Margaret Wise and Kotobalavu were at the Fiji Club in Suva seen writing notes.

The Times story was written with the intention of creating further instability in Fiji. With the extremist elements threatening to oppose the implementation of the Appeal decision with violence, and with a number of weapons still in the hands of terrorists, labelling Chaudhry as "a threat to national security" is seen as an invitation by the Fiji Times to remove Chaudhry from the political scene through violent means.

Such major breach of public order has not been acted on by the Fiji Police.

Another factory lays off workers; tourism concern

People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands - 4 March 2001

Another garment factory has laid off workers.

Media reports that last week, the Supertext Fiji Limited, based at Nabua Suva, laid off 150 workers.

Two weeks ago, two Lautoka based factories closed down their factories secretly and at least one of them shipped the machines out of Fiji. About 1000 workers were laid off.

Factors contributing to the mass closures are political instability and the end of the tax-free holidays.

Meanwhile the hotel industry says it is awaiting the outcome of the meeting of the Great Council of Chiefs. Today's Fiji Sun reports the Chief Executive of the Fiji Hotel Association, Olivia Pareti as saying: "The future of the tourism industry looks bleak and tourists could start coming back in large numbers when we gain political stability".

After the Fiji Court of Appeal judgment, another tourism industry personality, Viliame Gavoka told the media that he preferred to have Qarase and his regime continue to run Fiji. It is not clear whether Gavoka had the mandate of the organization he purportedly represented, Fiji Pride, to make the statement. But it is believed that many tourism industry personalities are upset with the statement he made to the radio journalist.

Sources claim that one Bill Gavoka's name was on the list of cabinet members in the Speight Government. It is not clear whether the two Gavoka's are the same persons.

PCG writes to President

People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands - 4 March 2001

The People's Coalition Government has written to the Acting President HE Ratu Josefa Iloilo requesting him to common Parliament.

The letter, sent last week and signed by the Parliamentary leaders of the five constituents of the People's Coalition (Fiji Labour Party, Fijian Association, VLV, PANU, and GVP), stated:

"We the undersigned parliamentary leaders of the below listed parties represented in the Parliament of Fiji and acting with the support of a clear majority of the elected members of the House of Representatives, hereby seek and request that your Excellency employ your constitutional powers as contained in Section 68 of the Constitution to summon Parliament as a matter of urgency. We attach a copy of a petition signed by 46 members of the House of Representatives."

"Today's decision by the Court of Appeal (Civil Appeal No. ABU 0078 of 2000) upholds the earlier decision of Justice Gates (Lautoka High Court Civil Action No 217/2000. In respect of the implementation of the Court's decision, we enclose copies of two legal opinions by Geoffrey Robertson QC and Prof. George Williams that may be of assistance to you."

"We can see no lawful impediment to the recall of Parliament nor to the workability of either House."

"Our parties are committed to the establishment of a Government drawing on broad support in Parliament as envisaged under the Constitution. Despite the upheavals of last year we believe that our parties have retained a clear majority with the support of at least 54 of the 71 elected MPs."

"We respectfully request your Excellency to grant an audience as soon as possible to enable us to discuss fully the matters set out in this letter."

PM says priority is Fiji's future

People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands - 4 March 2001

The Prime Minister of Fiji, Mahendra Chaudhry says that the priority of politicians should be Fiji's future.

Chaudhry stated that the major crisis facing Fiji came in two forms: one, the totally wrecked economy, and two, the racial intolerance generated by the acts of the terrorists.

The economy has been wrecked and it will take many years to rebuild it, he stated. Without a vibrant economy, no one could ensure that the standard of living in Fiji could be raised. Job losses, cuts in employment hours, cuts in wages, rising prices, and the general loss of investor confidence in Fiji dooms the nation to a cycle of poverty unless urgent action was taken on this front.

On reconciliation, the Prime Minister stated that there has to be restitution to those who have suffered from the actions of the terrorists and others associated with them. This process has to begin immediately, and the government must spend considerable resources on this.

Chaudhry stated that there was no winner in the actions of the terrorists. The ordinary person, of every ethnic group, was the greatest loser.

The reconvening of the Parliament was the first priority now, he said. Once the Parliament is reconvened, then other matters will follow.

Constitution requires GCC to consult PM

People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands - 4 March 2001

Legal experts say that the Great Council of Chiefs are required by the Constitution to consult the Prime Minister on the appointment of a new President and Vice-President.

A legal opinion prepared by Geoffrey Robertson, QC, and Professor George Williams, Director of the Centre of Public Law and the University of New South Wales, has been sent to the Acting President Ratu Josefa Iloilo.

The opinion states:

"The Bose Levu Vakaturaga (Great Council Of Chiefs) is created by the Fijian Affairs Act and it granted important powers by the 1997 Fiji Constitution. For example, under section 64, the Bose Levu Vakaturaga selects 14 of the 32 members of the Senate."

"Section 90 provides that the President and Vice-President are both appointed by the Bose Levu Vakaturaga. In doing so, the Council is required to consult with the Prime Minister. The appropriate person with whom the council should consult, at least until Parliament is recalled, is Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry. As the Fiji Court of Appeal noted on p 3, Counsel agreed that the President did not dismiss the Prime Minister or his Government."

"A necessary first step in implementing the decision of the Court of Appeal is to recall the Parliament elected in May 1999 to enable it to form a government. If Parliament proves unworkable because it is unable to form a government and chose a Prime Minster, it should be dissolved and fresh elections held. Where there is no Prime Minister due to an unworkable Parliament and because an election has been called, an acting President might be appointed by the Bose Levu Vakaturaga until there is a Prime Minister to consult with."

"Apart from these constitutional functions, the Bose Levu Vakaturaga has an additional political role of exercising responsible leadership. In this regard, the Bose Levu Vakaturaga and its members, like every Fijian citizen, is bound by the rule of law set out in the 1997 Constitution. The Constitution grants law-making power only to a democratically elected Parliament and sets clear limits to the role that can lawfully be played by the Council."

Robertson and Williams represented Chandrika Prasad against the Qarase regime's appeal on the validity of the 1997 Constitution. The Court of Appeal rejected the regime's appeal.

Chaudhry still PM, say legal experts

People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands - 4 March 2001

Mahendra Chaudhry is still Fiji's Prime Minister, say legal experts.

In a legal opinion on the role of the Great Council of Chiefs, counsel for Chandrika Prasad, Geoffrey Robertson and Professor George Williams, stated that the GCC has to consult Prime Minister Chaudhry on any appointment of the new President.

The opinion states that under the 1997 Constitution, the GCC is required to consult the Prime Minister on the appointment of the President and the Vice-President. It then states: "The appropriate person with whom the council should consult, at least until Parliament is recalled, is Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry. As the Fiji Court of Appeal noted on p 3, Counsel agreed that the President did not dismiss the Prime Minister or his Government".

The opinion has been sent to the President's office by the People's Coalition Government.

Robertson and Williams successfully defended Chandrika Prasad in the landmark Fiji Court of Appeal case for which the regime had engaged London's Matrix Chambers at a total cost of about $0.25m.

Fiji Times says military doesnt want Chaudhry and his gang

People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands - 4 March 2001

Today's Fiji Times says that the Fiji Military does not want Prime Minister Mahendra "Chaudhry and his group" back in government.

In a lead story, written by Margaret Wise subtitled "Army regards deposed PM a threat to national security", the paper claims that the army came to this conclusion "after three days of discussions on the implications of the Court of Appeal ruling".

The Fiji Times quoted unnamed senior army officers as saying: "The military is hoping that the pathway chosen to return Fiji to constitutional rule is in accordance with the law - that is according to the provisions of the 1997 Constitution. But at the same time as a matter of national interest we cannot afford to have Mr. Chaudhry and his group back".

No other newspaper or media organization was given this statement from the army.

Yesterday the Fiji Times argued that Sir Paul Reeves said that Mr. Chaudhry is incapable of leading Fiji forward.

On Friday, the paper editorialised that the Qarase regime should stay in power to take the country forward.

Today's article comes in a series of articles sending the message that the People's Coalition Government should not be returned to government despite the Fiji Court of Appeal ruling. The paper today did not explain how would it be possible to have a government with Chaudhry and his group out of it - the People's Coalition has at least 47 MPs out of 71 with it.

Election in August?
Monday, March 05, 2001

The country could be at the polls as early as the August school holidays this year.

Government sources say this option is seriously being considered as the solution to our political woes

. However, senior Government officials were reluctant to commit themselves to any official statement.

They however were quick to point out that the option will be considered by the Great Council of Chiefs when it meets in Suva on Wednesday.

But whether the GCC will accept that advice or not is another matter.Several GCC members indicated that they would be looking for a solution acceptable to all.

They said they would pre-empt the council's decision but said they were keeping their options open including the re-convening of the pre-May 19 parliament if it would result in stability.

However, one of the People's Coalition partner, the Veitokoni ni Lewenivanua Lotu Vakarisito/Christian Democratic (VLV/CDA) yesterday said the Appeals Court decision is only a declaration and must be treated as such.

Its general secretary, Jo Vosanibola in a statement said the country's problem was political and must be resolved politically. "You can't resolve political problems with legal solutions.

"VLV reaffirms its support to the calling of the GCC meeting to decide the fate of Fijians."

He said the decision of the GCC, the highest Fijian institution must be respected.

"GCC has given the mandate to the Interim Administration to rule and the GCC's mandate is for the country to have a new constitution and to take the country back to the democratic elections at earliest."

Mr Vosanibola said the VLV doesn't recognise the 1997 Constitution.

"We support the Interim Administration and its work to achieve a new constitution and hold a democratic election at its earliest."

Meanwhile, other People's Coalition partners seem not to have deemed having fresh elections as a viable option yet.

Instead their preferences are clearly for the re-convening of the pre-May 19 parliament.

In a letter to the President last week the Coalition said:

"We hereby seek and request that your Excellency employ your constitutional powers as contained in Section 68 of the Constitution to summon Parliament as a matter of urgency... our parties are committed to the establishment of a Government drawing on broad support in Parliament as envisaged under the Constitution.

Despite the upheavals of last year we believe that our parties have retained a clear majority with the support of at least 54 of the 71 elected Members of Parliament."

The letter is signed by Fijian Association Party leader Adi Kuini Speed, Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry, Christian Democratic Alliance parliamentary leader Poseci Bune and General Voters Party leader Leo Smith.

Fiji's Daily Post

Chaudhry is ready to work with 'clean' govt
Monday, March 05, 2001

Ousted prime minister Mahendra Chaudhry yesterday said he will not be part of any government which may include people allegedly involved in the May 19 attempted coup.

Mr Chaudhry however said he was a ready to work in a clean government.

"I am not opposing the idea of having a Government of National Unity because the coalition set-up itself was a multi-party cabinet, but what I am against is being part of a set-up that may include some who have had a hand in the overthrow of a democratically elected government.

"It is all about principles and I have some principles in my life.

I will not be part of such a set-up." On the future of Fiji Labour Party, Mr Chaudhry said the party was not up for sale.

"The party doesn't belong to just a few people but it is a party of the grassroots people and they are the ones who will decide its future."

Mr Chaudhry said the coalition leadership would be entirely up for the coalition partners to decide.

He however suggested all such issues be resolved after the political crisis is ended by the re-convening of the pre-May parliament.

"The Court of Appeal has shown clear directions to resolve a political crisis and the first step that needs to be taken is the parliament to be re-called.

I must also make it clear that I was the leader of the coalition and our coalition partners will be fully consulted on all matters related to the recalling of parliament and the events that must follow.

"It is time that the nation must be given a break, of course people must make that choice.Fiji is being watched by the rest of the world and if it doesn't uphold the rule of law, the nation has to be pay a price.We can expect a rise in unemployment, no worthwhile investment, and poverty levels will rise beyond tolerable levels."

On the other hand, deposed co-deputy prime minister Dr Tupeni Baba said he had no problems being part of a Government of National Unity which might involve people who were alleged to have been involved in the May 19 attempted coup.

He said he as a politician had to take few such steps and reminded the public no one had been convicted of being involved in the attempted coup.

Meanwhile, a deposed senator suggested that some members may opt to be part of a GNU because it is all about `bread and butter'.

"Perhaps, those who may join a GNU want just to be on that ministerial pension scheme and not so much to serve the people."

Fiji's Daily Post

Lesbian sues over 'phallic dog bone'
By Trudy Harris
02mar01 - The Australian

A LESBIAN florist successfully sued her butcher yesterday for $4500 for selling her a bone shaped as a penis.

A federal magistrate found Sarah Johanson suffered sexual harassment after she asked her local butcher for a bone for her dog and was sold one shaped into a penis.

Ms Johanson did not discover it was phallic until she arrived home from work later that day and unwrapped it. She said she was shocked and sickened by the "disgusting'' bone, later suffering anxiety attacks.

Ms Johanson told the court that she felt the incident was part of a campaign against her as a lesbian. She returned the bone to Michael's Meats in Sydney's Surry Hills Shopping Centre the next day and complained to the manager, who laughed, the court heard.

Despite reporting the incident to police, she was later forced to leave her job as a florist in the centre after suffering humiliation, she said.

She lodged a complaint with the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, which could not resolve the matter with the butcher, who initially denied his shop had sold her the bone.

She demanded an apology be printed in the Sydney Star Observer, a gay and lesbian newspaper, with a photograph of the butcher shop. The butcher, Richard Blackledge, initially refused to apologise, but later offered a personal apology.

The court heard Mr Blackledge was not in the shop when the bone was purchased.

One of his staff mistakenly sold Ms Johanson the bone made by an employee for a joke on a male friend. Ms Johanson, who now runs a florist shop at Mosman on Sydney's north shore, yesterday described the incident as a nightmare.

Federal magistrate Rolf Driver rejected Ms Johanson's claim that she suffered financial loss because she left the Surry Hills florist shortly after the incident.

But Mr Driver said the sexual harassment was clear.

"It is clear that the applicant sought an ordinary dog bone. She in no way sought or invited the provision of the dog bone shaped like a penis,'' he said.

Saturday March 3, 7:32 PM

Gay Mardi Gras Parade Draws Crowds

By EMMA TINKLER, Associated Press Writer

SYDNEY, Australia (AP) - A flock of plastic pink flamingoes carrying babies in their beaks - a tribute to gay families - led 7,500 colorful marchers Saturday through Sydney's streets for the city's annual Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade.

The event, now in its 24th year, began as a civil rights march and has grown into one of the world's largest gay pride festivals. An estimated half-million spectators braved cold and wet weather to watch the parade.

This year's event featured 175 floats, several carrying social and political messages. The event came four days after traditional Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, celebrations worldwide.

The lead float, titled ``Behind the Pink Picket Fence,'' highlighted families with gay and lesbian parents. It also attacked proposed federal legislation that would exclude lesbians from access to certain social programs.

Another float carried high-profile Aboriginal leader Geoff Clark and promoted reconciliation between Aborigines and other Australians.

Moses Tau, a singer from Papua New Guinea known as ``The Pacific Queen,'' danced through the city streets as that nation's first representative in the parade. He was cheered on by dozens of people from the local Pacific Islands' community.

Other marchers poked fun at local politicians and government leaders, while many marched simply to be part of the glamour and frivolity.

One first-time marcher who identified himself as ``Lytex'' had spent weeks sewing large, silver sequins onto a harlequin suit. The outfit was completed with a silver mask and a handful of star-shaped balloons.

The celebration has become one of the city's most lucrative cultural events and attracts corporate sponsorship from some of Australia's largest companies. An economic impact survey showed that the 1998 parade generated about $31.6 million in revenue for Sydney businesses as tourists flooded the city.

The Catholic and Anglican Churches have in the past been highly critical of the event, labeling last year's parade ``an exercise in gross exhibitionism that promotes a homosexual lifestyle.''

Sunday March 4, 2:11 AM

Sydney Mardi Gras parade retains political edge

By Wendy Frew

SYDNEY (Reuters) - A crowd of 400,000 let out a roar in Sydney's gay quarter on Saturday night, as 300 lesbian bikers revved their engines, flashed their lights and sped away to launch the 2001 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

The annual parade, now recognised as the world's biggest gay event, once again impressed spectators with its exuberant sexuality, carnival-style drag queens, raunchy dancers and bare flesh.

Sydney Mardi Gras parade retains political edge - Participants prepare their costumes before the 24th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on March 3. Mardi Gras is the biggest gay event in the world. REUTERS/Tim Wimborne

There was some criticism this year that the march was more about hedonism than gay rights. But Mardi Gras president Julie Regan insisted the parade, which began in 1978 as an illegal protest march, was still essentially a civil rights demonstration.

"The issue of gay and lesbian parenting will be highlighted on Saturday night and bring to light the inequalities that currently exist in the areas of in-vitro fertilisation, adoption and recognition of non-biological parents," Regan told a news conference earlier on Saturday.

To illustrate this year's theme of gay and lesbian parenting, the lead float carried a dozen pink flamingos holding in their beaks babies bundled in silver wraps.

Wearing "Gay dad" and "Straight daughter" T-shirts, Richard Roberts and his daughter Rebecca walked with other families behind the main float to show people that there was more than one kind of family.

"I think it is important to acknowledge that we have rights as parents and that we are good parents, and here is my 26-year-old daughter to prove it," Roberts told Reuters.

A wide range of community and political groups marched in gay solidarity, including Indigenous Australians like Sylvia Scott and Berryl Carr who rode in a white 1948 Cadillac for the third year in a row to help forge links between Australia's gay and black communities.

"We are trying to educate our community that gay people are just like everybody else," said Carr.

"It's about reconciliation," she said.

At a time when Aboriginal land rights remain a controversial and politically charged issue in Australia, the Black, White & Pink (BWP) float, which represents indigenous, gay and transgender Australians, pushed the issue of a treaty.

"It's an expression of solidarity with Aboriginal people and the focus of our float is reconciliation and, in particular, the need for a treaty between black and white Australia," said BWP member Stuart Stark.

"A lot of people come to the parade because it's fun, but I think they recognise Mardi Gras' political and social dimensions," Stark added.

Proud Mardi Gras families send message to Howard

By Christine Sams

Sydney Miorning Herald - March 4 2001

Let's samba: Rene Rivas on the Latin American float.Photo: AFP

After the traditional roar of motorbike engines from Dykes On Bikes, last night's Mardi Gras parade began with a political statement from gay and lesbian parents.

A large group of gay parents marched with their children behind the slogan Children Of The Rainbow.

Kathy Sant, designer of the lead float, the Pink Picket Fence, said the main message was that lesbians and gay men had families too.

"We love our families and our community and we want to celebrate it," she said.

Ms Sant said the theme was inspired by Prime Minister John Howard's suggestion last year that gay and lesbian families were not as good as the traditional concept of mother and father.

"It's really hurtful to families and especially the children," she said.

A gay father and his straight daughter marched side by side.

Richard has been watching, volunteering or participating in the parade since 1978 but this is the first time he has attended with Rebecca, 27.

Carnival colours ... 'Rainbow Lady' Nancy Richards from Edinburgh (right) and another arresting performer

Cos I am Free-man ... Lisa Mare Synon (with medal) is joined by other Aboriginal marchers in Cathy Freeman outfits

"This year, we are saying gay men and lesbians have the right to be parents," Richard said. "We make good parents."

They are part of a NSW gay and lesbian rights lobby float which is raising awareness that gays and lesbians do not have equal rights in parenting and superannuation.

"Also, the age of consent for gay men is 18, whereas for straights and dykes it's 16," Richard said. "We are lobbying to get this changed."

Rebecca, attending her first Mardi Gras, said: "It's great. I'm here to support my Dad. The rights of gays and lesbians are important. I want to show how proud I am of my Dad."

Mardi Gras officials and police estimated spectator figures to be about 100,000 down on last year's figure of 500,000.

"I'd like to think it was the weather," said Julie Regan, president of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

"We are not disappointed. We're just glad people went away after having such a good time."

Surry Hills Local Area Commander, Police Superintendent Gary Hodsdon said the general behaviour of the crowd was "excellent".

Drag dazzle ... queens Alica (left) and Clara preen themselves for the party

Strutting their stuff ... the popular marching boys

"It was a happy mood, a joyous mood," he said.

Seven people were arrested for assault, breach of the peace and malicious damage. Several spectators were treated for minor cuts and injuries.

The issue of reconciliation was a key theme, with indigenous gays and lesbians calling for a treaty from the Federal Government.

The thousands watching the parade remained in good spirits despite wet weather. "This is just awesome, it's so much fun," said Sam Ritchie, of Burwood, who was with her boyfriend, Eliot Coleman.

"It's relevant to us," she said. "We think gay people belong in our community. They have every right to be happy."

Tim Wainwright, 21, of Dee Why, who was with Christian protesters, said: "This doesn't do any good for the stability of the family. It's not morally right."

Thousands flock to check out frocks

Nine MSN - 4 March 2001

A crowd of over 400,000 people celebrated the gay and lesbian family theme at the 24th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras last night, jubilant organisers said.

Despite running over 30 minutes late, the crowd, which was slightly less than last year, lined Sydney's streets for world's biggest gay and lesbian parade.

Both police and ambulance had little trouble with the crowds with only seven people arrested and charged with minor assault offences by 11pm.

Julie Regan, President of the Mardi Gras' committee, told journalists the parade had been a great success.

"A lot more political statements were made this year with very strong issues that hopefully came across," she said.

The lead float in the parade was dedicated to a celebration of gay and lesbian families with parents marching side-by-side with their children.

Designer of the float Kathy Sant said, "The main message is that lesbians and gay men have families too. We love our families and our communities and we want to celebrate them."

Political issues dominated last night's parade with ATSIC chairman Geoff Clarke using the parade to promote reconciliation as well as gay rights.

"Oppression and discrimination is felt by Aboriginal people and also gays therefore people here are speaking out against that oppression," he said.

Victor's life in danger

03.03.2001 By NAOMI LARKIN

The man who brought down the Fiji Government was in hiding last night, fearing for his life and considering moving to New Zealand.

Sources in Fiji told the Weekend Herald that Chandrika Prasad - the ethnic Indian farmer who won his legal bid to have the interim Government declared illegal - feared for his safety if he remained in Fiji.

They believed Mr Prasad was planning to come to New Zealand after a man who looked like him was attacked on Thursday.

That day the nation's highest court, the Court of Appeal, declared illegal the military-backed Government installed after the coup by George Speight and his followers on May 19 last year.

In its decision, the court, headed by retired New Zealand judge Sir Maurice Casey, ruled that Fiji's multiracial 1997 constitution remained valid and had not been repealed by the military after the coup.

It ordered Parliament to be recalled and President Ratu Josefa Iloilo to step down by March 15.

Mr Prasad, aged 66, mounted his legal challenge after he was made homeless by racial terrorism directed at Indians in the days and weeks following the coup.

Homes were looted and destroyed and ethnic Indians beaten or harassed. Although Mr Prasad's fate was shared by many Indians, his court challenge and the historic outcome mean his self-proclaimed "ordinary life" will never be the same.

Mr Prasad has lived all his life on the family's farm at Muaniweni on the southern side of Fiji's main island, Viti Levu.

His father farmed it and his grandfather - who came out from India - before him. He spent two years at school before his mother died and his father struggled to keep the family of seven children together with the help of his eldest daughter.

Although his siblings left the farm, Mr Prasad chose to stay. He married a woman from his neighbourhood and they had three sons.

His days were straightforward: he rose early to milk the cows, stopping at 7.30 when his wife would bring him tea. Then he would work until 11 and have some lunch before doing more farm work.

His closest neighbour was his nephew Hari Diwakar Prasad, and the pair would sometimes go together to local functions.

Mr Prasad speaks Fijian as fluently as he does Hindi.

"We used to go to all the wedding and funeral gatherings in the Fijian village and they came to ours," Mr Diwakar Prasad told the Fiji Times.

"When they needed help, we helped. Sometimes they worked for us."

But in May, when Mahendra Chaudhry, the country's first ethnic Indian Prime Minister, was taken hostage by Speight and held along with his ministers in the Suva Parliament, everything changed.

Livestock and crops were stolen, houses looted, there were beatings and Mr Diwakar Prasad's 7-year-old child was thrown across a room. The families became refugees.

Yesterday, the fate of Fiji's 800,000 people, 44 per cent of whom are Indian, rested in the hands of Ratu Iloilo, who has said he will consult the Great Council of Chiefs next Thursday. He will then announce the way forward "in accordance with the law."

International pressure is firmly behind a return to democracy, with the United States, Britain, Australia and New Zealand all urging Fiji's interim Government to quickly implement the court's ruling.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon said the court's decision "sends a clear message that the rule of law cannot be overturned by force."

Mr Chaudhry told ABC radio in Australia that his return as Prime Minister was not certain. He said: "It's a matter for discussion."

FLP sets eye on GNU
Sunday, March 04, 2001

The Fiji Labour Party and its coalition partners have set their hopes on the President Ratu Josefa Iloilo for their return to power. And it is ready to participate in a Government of National Unity as provided for in the 1997 Constitution if the President so decides.

Pioneer Labour member and deposed government whip Krishna Datt yesterday said it was encouraging to see the President, had begun a consultation process to implement the Court of Appeal's ruling. Mr Datt stressed the future of the country very much depended on the President.

"Encouraging, that he has already started a consultation process. We understand that the President will receive advice from all sides, including the Interim Administration," Mr Datt said. "The advice which the interim Administration is hoping to give the President may pose questions of legitimacy, as far as law is concerned, the administration is illegal.

Of course, the President is entitled to receive advice from whoever he chooses including individuals from the Interim Administration." Mr Datt said the President's Office would also be well advised to note the judgment made it clear that: "The President didn't dismiss the prime minister or his government and didn't assume executive control"

"This leaves the President the choice of inviting the People's Coalition to take up office as they were and call the parliament at the earliest." However, Mr Datt said the coalition was prepared to work in a GNU. "Coalition has stated this publicly that in the changed circumstances, it will accept a GNU.

"This clearly stated position of the coalition, allows the President, a second option, that is, to invite the various parties to form the GNU. " Mr Datt said an invitation from the President to form a GNU should be focussed around an agenda consisting issues such as structure of the proposed GNU its composition and allocation of number of ministries to participating parties

the principle on which a GNU will function duration of the GNU who is to lead the GNU Mr Datt suggested it would be useful for such a conference to examine wether it could adopt a common view on issues like: electoral reforms; land policies; affirmative action and other priority policies covering health, education, poverty and infrastructure developments including strategies for rebuilding investor confidence.

"Such a move by the President could well allow the parties to begin discussion of their own to facilitate a GNU. "The FLP and the coalition will be willing to ideally participate actively in a GNU under the 1997 Constitution." He said the experience and the wisdom of the President would definitely provide the coalition and the country the opportunity to move forward.

Fiji's Daily Post

Baba dreams on
Sunday, March 04, 2001

Deposed co-deputy prime minister Dr Tupeni Baba is gathering surport from different political groups to become the next prime minister of Fiji. Dr Baba has reportedly been working round the clock to dislodge Mahendra Chaudhry from the position.

Well placed coalition sources said Dr Baba and other coalition members have worked out a possible structure of the proposed Government of National Unity.

The sources said Dr Baba has had several meetings with other Fijian political parties to get their votes in case the President Ratu Josefa Iloilo opts for a Government of National Unity. However, indigenous members of the People's Coalition also met yesterday to discus their political future, particularly, the leadership issue.

Deposed co-deputy prime minister Adi Kuini Speed confirmed the meeting saying it was to prepare for the coalition's caucus meeting scheduled for tomorrow. Adi Kuini said the meeting will undoubtedly address important issues like the implications of the Appeal's Court ruling and leadership.

Another indigenous deposed member of parliament said they had to work for Fijian interests and aspirations. For this, he said the country was to be ruled by an indigenous Fijian.

"It's no secret that Dr Baba had been running around to gain support for himself and the court's ruling has just boosted that desire to become a prime minister," the deposed minister said.

"Now, it all is in the hands of the President." However, Fijian Association Party deputy leader and chairman of the combined Fijian political parties, Esira Rubuno had earlier said Fijians would not accept any coalition members to rule the country.

Mr Rabuno said they preferred the Interim Administration to rule and take the country forward. Meanwhile, deposed prime minister Mahendra Chaudhry was expected to arrive in the country last night.

Fiji's Daily Post

German skinheads jailed for murdering 'misfit'
03 MARCH 2001

BERLIN (Reuters): Four German far-rightists were jailed for between five and 13 years on Friday for murdering a 60-year-old man they had singled out because he was "anti-social".

The victim, a welfare recipient known to have an alcohol problem, was kicked and beaten by the group in his Berlin flat last May before one attacker returned and stabbed him to death to stop him telling the police.

Judge Kai Dieckmann said the four, aged between 17 and 21, had acted with "malicious far-right-wing motives" in attacking the sleeping man after drinking heavily and listening to rock music with extremist lyrics.

The 21-year-old man regarded by the court as the gang's ringleader was jailed for 13 years. He had called the victim "anti-social scum" after the killing.

The 18-year-old, who stabbed the victim, was sentenced to eight years' youth custody after testifying extensively in the case. The other two, aged 17 and 19, received youth custody sentences of five and six years respectively for acting as lookouts.

Far-right crime surged 60 percent last year in Germany, new figures from the Interior Ministry showed on Friday, although the dramatic rise was in part caused by increased reporting.

Reported far-right, anti-Semitic and xenophobic crimes rose to 15,951 in 2000, up 59 percent from the previous year. Far-right crime classified as violent, ranging from breach of the peace to murder, rose 34 percent to 998 incidents.

Dutch offer winning formula to cut teenage pregnancies
03 MARCH 2001

LONDON (Reuters): Sex education, free contraceptives and liberal attitudes towards sex are among the best ways to reduce soaring teenage pregnancy rates, a Dutch researcher said on Friday.

The Dutch should know. The Netherlands has fewer pregnant teenagers than most Western countries.

Less than one percent, or 10 per 1000, 15-17 year-olds in the Netherlands get pregnant each year, compared to nearly five percent in Britain, which has the highest rate in Western Europe, and 99 per 1000 in the United States.

"Teenage pregnancy seems virtually eliminated as a health and social problem in the Netherlands," Dr Simone Buitendijk, of the Dutch Institute for Applied Scientific Research in Leiden, told Reuters.

The Dutch have seen a steady drop in the number of young mothers for decades as teen pregnancies have been increasing in other countries. In the early 1970s 4 percent of live births in the Netherlands were to teenagers. By the late 1990s, the figure had dropped to one percent.

"It's due to a whole mix of things. It is very hard to pinpoint what the major factor is. The liberal attitude is probably one very important determinant," she added in a telephone interview.

While other countries have been expounding the joys of no sex, the Dutch have accepted teens are sexually active and have introduced measures to deal with it.

"In Holland, teens know about sexuality and about procreation, how it works and what you should do not to become pregnant. Their peers know and it is a very socially acceptable thing to prevent pregnancy," she added.

Birth control pills are available at pharmacies and free through a National Sick Fund, a state-funded system that ensures low income people have medical care, and statistics show Dutch teenagers are using them.

In 1995, 70 percent of sexually active 18 year-olds were on the pill and 40 percent of students three or four years younger. Eighty-five percent of teens used a condom, the pill or both during their first sexual experience.

Buitendijk, who will present the Dutch data at a meeting on child health in London, said condoms are popular among young teenagers but the pill gains preference as they get older.

"Factors that positively influence contraceptive behaviour in Dutch teenagers are their sufficient knowledge of reproduction and contraception, the large amount of information available to them both in school and informally and the general permissive attitude the Dutch hold toward teen sexuality," she said.

Proof birth control is the key is supported by a drop in teenage abortions in the Netherlands but an increase in sexual activity. So more teens are having sex but fewer are getting pregnant or having abortions.

Calcutta to host carnival for 25,000 prostitutes
03 MARCH 2001

CALCUTTA (Reuters): Twenty-five thousand Indian prostitutes will gather in a Calcutta football stadium on Saturday to demand official recognition for their profession.

The women will also take part in music and dance programmes to display their talents in these arts at the three-day Millennium Milan Mela (Gathering of the Millennium).

Prostitutes seeking a more dignified life would seek recognition as sex workers during the three-day carnival, a statement of Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee, which is a forum for sex workers, said on Friday.

"The gathering will act as a bridge between common people and prostitutes and remove some of the stigma attached to their profession by making clear that it is like any other job," said Smarajit Jana, adviser to the forum.

A member of the forum, Bachchu Dutta, said prostitutes were like any other service industry workers and were doing a service for men who sought relief from stress and depression.

Dutta said that prostitutes would use the occasion to demand they be given workers' rights so that they could form unions to fight against harassment.

The committee, however, would not ask the government to legalise the profession by granting licences to prostitutes, he said.

"All we want is that prostitutes be treated better," Jana said.

West Bengal, whose capital is Calcutta, has around 60,000 prostitutes, several of whom are minors, volunteers said.

Fiji tense as Chaudhry flies in to 'retake control'
03 MARCH 2001

SUVA (Reuters): Fiji was in a state of tension after the country's highest court declared illegal the military-backed regime illegal and called for a return to democratic rule.

In Sydney, Fiji's ousted Prime Minister, Mahendra Chaudhry, was reported as saying that he was flying home to "retake control of the government".

On a brief stop at Sydney Airport on Friday night before he flew to Fiji On Saturday, Mr Chaudhry was reported by the AAP as saying that his government had a mandate from the people to rule and he expected to have the support to be reinstated.

"I am going back to reclaim the people's mandate," he is reported as saying.

In Suva on Friday, shops opened in the capital Suva, people turned up for work, and the army – which days before made the town look like a barracks – had withdrawn from around Fiji's Parliament.

But out in the interior, indigenous Fijians said they were determined to avoid the court's order to return to the 1997 multiracial constitution, which gave the large Indian minority equal political clout to the native islanders.

On the other side of the ethnic divide, Indian shopowners nervously kept metal grills near to protect windows from attack.

In Naimasimasi, about 30km along a pot-holed road to Suva's east, one of the local chiefs rejected outright the 1997 constitution which the Court of Appeal declared to be still the law of the land.

"They (the Indians) want Fijians to leave Fiji," second chief Juta Drugu told Reuters with a dismissive wave of his hand.

VIOLENCE SIMMERS

Political violence has simmered beneath Fiji's surface since failed businessman George Speight last May took hostage the country's first ethnic Indian Prime Minister, Mahendra Chaudhry, in the name of indigenous rights.

Speight's coup floored Fiji's tourism, sugar and textile Industries, as indigenous mobs burned Indian shops and attacked Indo-Fijian villagers.

Asked about the possibility of new violence, Drugu laughed and said he would await word from the Great Council of Chiefs, Fiji's traditional enclave of indigenous rulers.

The Council will meet with President Ratu Josefa Iloilo on March 8 to decide the government's response to the court ruling.

"I want the Great Council of Chiefs to change the constitution. There is no other way.," he said.

In nearby Nausori, a bustling provincial town, the Indians who dominate local trade were apprehensive even though the court ruling had gone their way.

"For us, it's dangerous," one businessman told Reuters.

Like others, he did not want to be named. "They (indigenous Fijians) can just come around and hurt us. It's happened before."

Another said he might leave his home of 42 years.

"I don't see a future here for my son and I don't want to be a slave of these indigenous people," he said.

CHIEFS WILL DECIDE

The Court of Appeal, made up of five Commonwealth judges, ruled on Thursday that the interim government appointed by the military after Speight's coup was not legitimate.

It said the parliament elected democratically in 1999 had not been dismissed, and the 1997 constitution remained valid.

Interim Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase said he would prepare to return Fiji's 320 coral-rimmed islands to constitutional, democratic rule. But he warned it would take time.

The fate of Fiji's 800,000 people – 44 percent of whom are Indian – now rests in the hands of President Iloilo, an elderly and fragile statesman, and the traditional chiefs.

Analysts were concerned that while interim Prime Minister Qarase had in the past said he would abide by the Court of Appeal's decision, an explicit commitment to uphold that promise was missing from his address to the nation on Thursday.

"It was a very bitter pill for Qarase to swallow I think," said Stewart Firth, head of politics and history at the University of the South Pacific. "They're looking for some way around it. It's not looking good," he warned.

The ousted Chaudhry, held for 56 days by Speight, earlier said during a visit to India that the ruling meant he was still prime minister. But the Fiji Times, citing unnamed officials, said the interim government would prefer to hold a new general election.

Tropical Cyclone Paula added to the general air of apprehension as it passed to the southwest of Fiji. Some shorefront huts were crushed by a storm surge, and Suva was littered with fallen tree branches, but no deaths or injuries were reported.

Military calls for respect for Appeal decision

People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands - March 3 2001

The military has called for the people to respect the decision of the Fiji Court of Appeal.

Today's Daily Post reports that the Military's Commander in the Western Division, Lt. Henry Manulevu has asked the public to appreciate and abide by the decision.

He is quoted as saying:
"We plead to the people to respect the decision that was made by the Court of Appeal and should not start over-reacting on the judgment made. The military is here to provide law and order in the country and our main priority is to provide security to the public at large. The security forces are still patrolling the streets and are closely monitoring the movement of the people".

Lt. Manulevu further stated:
"The military has sent out early warning to the people who are planning to bring further instability to the country who are not in favour of the judgment. We just hope that good sense will prevail and people who are wanting to do illegal things should sit back and have a good look at the past months where people have suffered because of acts of some people who have no national pride".

Lt. Manulevu, however, stated that it was now up to the Qarase regime to decide their course of action.

Meanwhile, many people have reported that the military and the police have withdrawn from the checkpoints in Suva and other areas from midday Friday. Some weeks ago, the military had withdrawn from frontline services and handed back to the police the authority for internal security. It stated that it will only come in on the request of the Police Commissioner, Isikia Savua. It is not known whether it was Savua who asked for the dismantling of the checkpoints.

There are still over 20 military weapons in the hands of terrorists and their supporters.

Qarase blasts other nations

People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands - March 3 2001

The Prime Minister of the regime which has been declared illegal by the Fiji Court of Appeal, Laisenia Qarase has blasted other countries for interfering with Fiji's internal affairs.

Devoting over a third of his `Address to the Nation' condemning other nations for insisting on democracy in Fiji, Qarase said that Fiji should be left on its own to solve its problems.

He stated:

"Ladies and gentlemen, tonight, I also have a message for the international community. Many countries and international organisations have shown a genuine concern for Fiji and we are grateful for that. Sadly, however, there are those who have acted more in their own self-interests than ours as a sovereign independent country. They do not really understand Fiji's problems; they have only managed to heighten internal tensions and widen the divisions between our two main communities. At times, it has seemed as though we are the victims of a new form of colonialism, with external pressure and threats coming in many forms. It is, apparently, acceptable to bully and threaten a small nation."

"They come with their pre-conceived solution for our country. We must adopt their system of liberal democracy, their standard of human rights and the way they run their economy. It is as though we are incapable of thinking for ourselves, and to work out our own solutions, peacefully through dialogue, taking into account the complex nature of our multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country."

"I say to these Governments and organisations, please leave us alone. The best contribution you can each one make in the present situation is to show your understanding and patience. Just as we would try to avoid making provocative statements about a delicate internal issue in another country, so we expect others to be considerate towards us. Fiji's difficulties will be resolved here, by the citizens of this land who must live with the consequences. Solutions will not be imposed on us by outsiders. We need time and space to repair the damage done to the country, to restore relationships and develop trust. Indeed, the biggest challenge for all of us in Fiji is to work together and co-operate in rebuilding trust and confidence between our communities."

Melbourne's the Age newspaper referred to Qarase as "subdued and apparently irritated"

Jo Singh, Lodhia, Fiji Times not too pleased

People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands - March 3 2001

As the nation and the world hail the landmark decision of the Fiji Court of Appeal, some individuals have expressed reservations about it.

Jo Singh, a member of the regime's Constitution Review Commission, has been quoted by today's Fiji Times as saying that Fiji should not go back to the pre-29 May days. The apparent reference is to the reconvening of the Parliament as it was before the terrorist crisis began.

Using a little known "Pacific British Chamber of Commerce" banner, Singh stated: "the reality of the situation needs to be addressed seriously…. The legality is one thing because its being done in court and the reality is another". While he called for people to respect the rule of law and the Acting President, Singh stated: "We need to go back to May 29 and see the wisdom of those involved, including the President, in helping put Fiji on the path to democracy. We need to be cautious. Don't undermine that path and go back to pre May 29".

Singh was earlier disowned by the Fiji Chamber of Commerce of which he was a past president.

Himmat Lodhia has also been quoted by the Fiji Times as saying: "It's an abrupt judgment and the business community is panicky because of what's happened in the past. Their fear is justified so every member is taking precautionary measures…. We sincerely hope for good sense to prevail on all sides - from government, the Labour Party and other parties - for better nation building. If everyone asks for their pound of flesh, then we will go down".

Lodhia used the banner of the Suva Retailers Association. The Association was de-registered only two weeks ago by the Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations, but was re-registered after interventions by Lodhia's contacts in the regime.

But the most surprising reaction of all has come from the Fiji Times which reported reactions to the decision and not the exact court decision itself. Only on page 12 it began published extracts of the 60 page judgment.

Leading its page one with the bold title "We go to the polls" and the subtitle "Court of Appeal upholds 1997 Constitution", the paper began with an opinion piece by its reporter Margaret Wise before reporting on the Acting President's address to the nation.

Its prominent page 3 lead article was titled "Legality versus reality" and subtitled "Be cautious, or else, Chamber warns". The article contained comments from Jo Singh using the little known Pacific British Chamber of Commerce banner, and comments by Himmat Lodhia, and Mark Halabe. It relegated the official statement from the Fiji Chamber of Commerce to a small corner on page 4. The Fiji Chamber of Commerce had in no uncertain terms welcomed the decision.

While the paper's editorial called for the nation to accept the decision, in the most ironical twist, it called for the retention of the Qarase regime. It stated: "The interim administration has done a commendable job under the most difficult of conditions. It could be retained, legally, if necessary while the process of a return to democracy is allowed to continue".

The newspaper has in the past continued to stir ethnic tension in the country. Only recently, an independent academic had analysed the media in Fiji and concluded that the Fiji Times had played a crucial role in the collapse of democracy in the country. Its reporting today confirms that the paper, or at least some of its writers, are continuing in this tradition.

Ultra-nationalists reject Appeal outcome

People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands - March 3 2001

Ultra nationalists and supporters of the terrorist George Speight have rejected the Fiji Court of Appeal decision.

Calling it an imposition by "five foreigners", the Fijian Forum stated that the judgement is not acceptable to them because it threatens their rights in Fiji.

Today's Daily Post reports the forum, comprising members of the SVT, and factions of VLV, Fijian Association, Nationalist Party, and the Taukei Movement, saying: "With us Fijians we only recognise the Great Council of Chiefs. The Council will have the last say… if not then the country will continue to have problems".

The reference was apparently stressing their earlier statement that they may engage in violent opposition to any ruling which event against the regime.

The paper quoted the Forum's Esira Rabuno as saying: "Fijians will not accept the 1997 Constitution…. Definitely we well also not accept the deposed government… we Fijians feel that five foreigners cannot make practical decisions for our country and tell us how to run it. Fiji is our country and we can manage it."

While saying that they will "wait for the [GCC] meeting and then decide on the next move", the Forum stated that it will meet on Wednesday, a day before the GCC starts its meeting, to discuss the Court decision in full.

Most members of the Forum supported the terrorist George Speight. The Fijian Association faction, and members of the Nationalist Party were seen on the Parliament Complex with the terrorists. The FA faction, led by Ratu Tuakitau Cakanauto, had even written to Speight asking to be given 6 cabinet seats in the `Speight government'. Basking in glory given to him by the media, Speight rejected the demand saying that if the FA members wanted to join him, they should come in their individual capacities and not as members of the FA. Ratu Tuakitau Cakanauto is now a minister in the Qarase regime. He has been closely associated with companies belonging to ethnic Indian business tycoon Hari Punja.

DILEMMA
Friday, March 02, 2001

The Interim Government will not immediately resign its commission despite the Fiji Court of Appeal refusing to legitimise its existence.Instead, it will stay on until a political solution is found to bring Fiji back to parliamentary democracy based on the provisions of the 1997 Constitution.

The stay on move came after the Fiji Court of Appeal decision handed down yesterday has left the country in a deeper political slumber than expected.While the five judges ruled purely on the legality of the issue at stake, it failed to give clear directions on how to resolve the current political turmoil leaving it to the leaders to find an amicable solution.

However, in a national broadcast last night, both the President Ratu Josefa Iloilo and Interim Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, reassured the nation that government will abide by the ruling of the court and that the rule of law will be upheld. At the same time, they appealed to the nation for calm and peace, cooperation and for the people to tread cautiously as the leaders continue to search for a political solution.

For a start, the Great Council of Chiefs will be convened on Thursday March 8 where Ratu Iloilo will brief the chiefs on the implications of the Appeals Court ruling. He will take his cue from whatever the GCC decides, based on the provisions of the 1997 Constitution.

"Our task now is to ensure that the pathway we choose to rebuild our country is in accordance with the 1997 Constitution. "At the same time, however, we must also take account of the wider national interests in terms of the welfare of the people and peace, security, order and stability in our society," Ratu Iloilo lamented. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase will convene his Cabinet on Tuesday March 6 where it will be briefed on the implications of the Appeals Court judgment in its totality.

Following that meeting, PM Qarase will advise Ratu Iloilo on the possible path to bring Fiji back to parliamentary democracy in the shortest and smoothest way possible. "The biggest challenge for all of us in Fiji is to work together and cooperate in rebuilding trust and confidence between our communities," Mr Qarase said. But, Mr Qarase did not spare the rod on what he perceived to be international interference in the affairs of Fiji.

While he applauded the genuine concern shown by many countries and international organisation he said there were those: "who have acted more in their own self interests than ours as a sovereign independent country". Mr Qarase claimed such interference only manage to highten internal tensions and widen the divisions between Indians and Fijians.

"At times, it has seemed as though we are the victims of a new form of colonialism with external pressure and threats coming in many forms. It is apparently acceptable to bully and threaten a small nation." He called on these organisations and governments to "please leave us alone".

Fiji's Daily Post

Baba calls on politicians to unite
Friday, March 02, 2001

The court has done its part and it is now up to politicians and the president to do theirs, says Fiji Labour Party spokesman Dr Tupeni Baba.

Commenting on the Appeals Court judgment handed down yesterday giving victory to pro-democracy supporters, Dr Baba said politicians must provide guidance to the people and ensure that the rule of law was followed.

The deposed Deputy Prime Minister in the Coalition government said the party welcomed the ruling and he commended the population for their patience while the judiciary determined the legality or otherwise of the 1997 Constitution.

He said the party would be able to plan its course of action after the President, Ratu Josefa Iloilo, makes a public statement on his stand on the ruling.

"We will collaborate with the president to ensure that the court's decision is upheld and democracy and peace is maintained," Dr Baba said.

He said the party was keen to know the reaction of the Great Council of Chiefs, which was expected to call a meeting next week.

Fiji's Daily Post

Constitution remains Fiji's Supreme law
Friday, March 02, 2001

The 1997 Constitution has not been abrogated and remains the supreme law of the country.

The Fiji Court of Appeal yesterday upheld Lautoka High Court Judge Anthony Gates' ruling on the validity of the 1997 Constitution.

The court also ruled that the Interim Administration can't be recognised as the `legal' Government of Fiji.

President of the Court of Appeal, Sir Maurice Cassey made three declarations the 1997 Constitutionremains the supreme law of the Republic of the Fiji Islands and has not been abrogated.

Parliament has not been dissolved. It was prorogued on May 27, 2000 for six months and the office of the President under the 1997 Constitution became vacant when the resignation of Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara took effect on December 15, 2000.

In accordance with section 88 of that Constitution, the Vice-President may perform the functions of the President until March 15, 2001 unless a President is sooner appointed under section 90. On the legitimacy of the Laisenia Qarase-led Administration, Sir Cassey said that the Civilian Government had not proved that it has the popular acceptance (acquiescence) generally of the people of Fiji.

"Accordingly it can't be recognised as the legal government, we then go on to consider how far its conduct of affairs aimed at maintaining normal government during the period it exercised power can be recognised as valid," Sir Cassey said.

"There is no question about control but there was no direct evidence of acquiescence produced by the government and the court was left to infer this from affidavits by officials indicating that all branches of government were proceeding normally and citizens were acting in conformity with its requirements.

We don't accept such passive acceptance as persuasive evidence of acquiescence, having regard to the short time the government has been in control and its suppression of public demonstrations of dissent, evidenced in the material provided by Mr Chandrika Prasad."

Apart from the declarations, Sir Cassey pointed out that the 1997 Constitution was a reliable expression of the hopes and aspirations of the whole population. The court also ordered the State to cover the appeal costs acquired by Mr Chandrika Prasad's legal team.

Fiji's Daily Post

Parliament to form govt
Friday, March 02, 2001

Geoffery Robertson, head of Chandrika Prasad's legal team said from London yesterday that the proper lawful course for Fiji was that the elected Parliament be recalled as soon as possible.

Mr Robertson, a Queen's Counsel said: "The Parliament would have the task of forming a government and choosing a prime minister.

If it is unable to form a government, it should be dissolved and fresh elections be held... once a prime minister has been chosen, a new president should be appointed."

Mr Robertson had put forward explanations on the reconvening of the pre May 19 parliament; whether national elections could be held now; and on the former president's resignation.

Fiji's Daily Post

Emergency meeting
Friday, March 02, 2001

The Interim Administration called an emergency Cabinet meeting at the Ministry of Information yesterday after the Court of Appeal made its ruling.

However, the media was not invited to cover the meeting and had to wait outside in order to get comments from the ministers.

Several of the ministers were asked for their view on the Court Of Appeal judgment, and if and when they were going to resign. Interim Assistant Minister for Women, Bernadette Ganilau said the decision made could not be a voided.

"Actually it was inevitable." "Perhaps we better leave it till you hear from the Prime Minister," she said.

Fiji's Daily Post

Victory for democracy
Friday, March 02, 2001

Co-deputy Prime Minister in the deposed People's Coalition Government Adi Kuini Speed has labelled yesterday's Appeals Court ruling as a "victory for democracy".

In a landmark ruling, the five Court of Appeal judges upheld the 1997 Constitution, saying Parliament was not dissolved. Adi Kuini said the judgment meant "justice was now done in our country."

Commenting on the judges' findings, the Fijian Association Party spokeswoman said she had always felt Parliament was still in force.

"I was determined to carry out my duties to its full term unlike some other ministers," she said.

Adi Kuini said the FAP would hold a meeting to discuss the judgment and this would be followed by a meeting between parties of the Coalition government.

Fiji's Daily Post

Two families leaves refugee camp
Friday, March 02, 2001

Two more families left the Girmit Centre in Lautoka last week.

They have been residing there since the events of May 19 last year. And, two members of another family have left for their home in Muaniweni sometime last week while the rest of the family are still at the centre.

"The family was given a one acre of land by the Red Cross to farm. "Residents present at the Centre are mostly commercial farmers who are used to work mainly in farms and some of them have decided to make the best of the opportunity given," the source said. However, another family had returned to the Centre after they were terrorised again.

"The Tailevu family had gone to check on their house but it was raided by the locals of the area while they were there. Meanwhile, more than 17 people are still at the Centre.

"There are between 40-50 families at the camp who are still confused on whether to return to their homes or not.

"Although regular police patrols are being provided in the terrorised areas during the height of the political crisis, residents still feel insecure as far as their safety is concerned."

Fiji's Daily Post

Shamee's happy with the ruling
Friday, March 02, 2001

Fiji Human Rights Director Shaista Shameem said she was happy with the Appeals Court ruling which favoured the respondent, Muainaweni farmer, Chandrika Prasad.

"Very happy, I think that Chandrika is happiest of all, we just stood by him to make sure he was safe and that he could enjoy his rights, in this incident the court had to decide whether or not his human rights were violated,"

Ms Shameem said outside the court room yesterday. She said most of the lawyers who represented Mr Chandrika offered their services for free. She said she was happy the court has awarded costs amounting to $50,000 to Chandrika Prasad.

Government would also have ro meet other costs such as travel expenses and accommodation for his lawyer.

She said the case incurred huge costs for the photocopying, travelling and other day to day expenses especially during the four-day seating last week.

Fiji's Daily Post

Reinstate legal govt: Chaudhry
Friday, March 02, 2001

Reinstate legal govt: Chaudhry In an interview with New Zealand Radio Tarana, ousted prime minister, Mahendra Chaudhry said that the president should respect the Court of Appeal’s ruling and reinstate the legal government.

"Only after the legal government is reinstated then Fiji should see to the possibility of the formation of a government of national unity (GNU)," Chaudhry said in the interview.

However he was unsure of getting the majority votes needed to remain prime minister in the legal government.

Early shutdown for businesses
Friday, March 02, 2001

Most businesses in Suva closed down early yesterday afternoon in anticipation of the Appeals Court verdict on the legality or otherwise of the 1997 Constitution.

Most of the businessmen said they had to close down for their own safety as they didn't know what the outcome of the judgment would be.

"We are closing our shops in case there is a repeat of last year's May 19 crisis," a businessman who wished not to be named said. "Yes I have shutters on my shop because I wouldn't want to lose everything like last year," the businessman said.

By 1.30pm, most of the businesses had closed down and shutters were seen boarded on the front of their display windows.

The capital was left almost bare and one would think it was a public holiday because of the quietness of the atmosphere. Most businesses also recorded nil customers.

Police officers were seen patrolling the streets and security at checkpoints was tight. President of the Fiji Retailers Association Mr Himmat Lodhia said they did not ask the businesses to close but the decision to do so remained solely on the shop owners.

"We had assurance from the police and the army that there would be no problems and that was why we encouraged the retailers to remain open for business.

Mr Lodhia said he did not think that any disturbance would happen yesterday as there were no disgruntled parties.

After the judgment was announced, Mr Lodhia said he was happy with the decision as democracy has been restored. "But I am hoping that all the parties concerned will abide by the decision.

"Good sense and judgment will always prevail. At the end of the day, all the people of Fiji should throw the line in and obey the decision made by the Court, he said.

Fiji's Daily Post

Police warn investors
Friday, March 02, 2001

Fly by night investors and money launderers beware. A special unit has now beet set up within the Fiji Police Force known as the Commercial Crime Division to look after, and if the need be, investigate investors activities in the country.

Headed by Senior Superintendent of Police Jahir Khan, the unit which is in its final stages of being set up and is likely to be on the road in the next two weeks, will have specialised people who will liaise with investors, providing them confidence with fast track investigations.

The unit will also be looking at the vetting of investors with the assistance of the Fiji Trades and Investment Board and various municipalities.

Acting SSP Jahir Khan says there will also be a unit set up under the CCD called the Financial Intelligence Unit which will be looking at building a data base of information on investors and will closely monitor financial status of companies in regards to money laundering and the likes.

The role of the CCD will be to look at the proactive and reactive side of things like being aware of certain information and taking action before they take place.

This will, according to SSP Khan, eliminate investors who create a lot of confusion and despair for workers like the Trident and Radar Garment Factories, who packed up and left the country without notice last week leaving more than 400 people jobless.

The Commercial Crime Division will now play an active role in policing people who think they can use Fiji for quick buck schemes. Mr Khan also said the CCD would assist on issues where investors were concerned for instance, with land issues liaising closely with the Native Lands Trust Board and the Lands Department.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Moses Driver believes this unit is an extension of the department's services for the public and investors alike, and believes it is a good initiative that will certainly discourage fly by night investors.

He says the unit will liaise closely with their counterparts from Australia, New Zealand, America or whichever country they need to work with.

Mr Driver firmly believes security is getting better for our country and this should mean more confidence for our investors. Chairman for the Fiji Trades and Investment Board James Datta believes the setting up of the unit is a wise move which will boost investor confidence as well as eliminate con artists who try every now and again to launder money in Fiji.

Fiji's Daily Post

Emergency Contraception Pills now available
Thursday, February 15, 2001

Emergency Contraceptive Pills that prevent pregnancy of taken within 72 hours after sex, are now available in Fiji.

These ECPs have been thoroughly tested and have the full support of the World Health Organsation, assured Permanent Secretary for Health, Luke Rokovadra.

The pills cost approximately $40 overseas, but are being distributed here for free. 400 packets of the pills have been distributed to general practitioners.

The pills were sent from France with the support of the Population Council in New York.

The Fiji Times

Amnesty International response on Court of Appeal ruling

Fiji Village - March 1 2001

Amnesty international says Fiji's response to today's judgement on Constitutional human rights will be an example, good or bad, for future generations and far beyond the Pacific.

Amnesty says while only Fiji can solve its own problems, experience shows that no solution will last if it ignores internationally recognised principles of human rights and respect for the rule of law.

Amnesty says they take no position on the form or composition of Fiji's Government but urges Fiji authorities to realise the enormous responsibility resting on their shoulders for the future of the human rights and lawful government in Fiji.

Waiting game

The interim administration will spend the weekend studying the Court of Appeal and preparing an analysis for the interim cabinet.

Interim Prime minister, Laisenia Qarase says cabinet is scheduled to have a special meeting next Tuesday to discuss the Court's ruling than he will offer his advice to Interim President, Ratu Josefa Iloilo. Qarase also says the interim President will call a Great Council of Chiefs meeting either next Thursday or Friday.

Interim President Ratu Josefa says he will advise the GCC about the decision of the court and after their consultations, he will than announce the pathway forward for Fiji.

Meanwhile Qarase has issued a warning to the international community, asking that they leave Fiji alone. He says the best contribution, these foreign countries can make, is show understanding and patience to Fiji. Qarase says Fiji difficulties will be resolved here by its citizens because we have to live with the consequences.

The Interim Prime Minister says solutions will not be imposed by outsiders.

NZ calls on tourists to stay away from Fiji

The New Zealand Prime Minister, Helen Clark has welcomed today's court of appeal decision but she continues to warn her country men and women to stay away from Fiji.

" Personally I think Fiji is one of the most wonderful tourist destination but its not a time to be going there because Fiji is not in good shape to give hospitality."

Clark has called on the interim administration to respect the rule of law. She now awaits the decision to be made by the President in regards to the ruling.

Responses to COA ruling pour in

Responses to today's court of appeal judgement has already started to come in.

The Citizen Constitutional Forum has welcomed the decision and hopes that a Government of National Unity will be formed in Parliament to take Fiji forward. Executive Director, Reverend Akuila Yabaki says the interim administration should remain until GNU is ready to take over. The CCF has called on all citizens of Fiji to respect the rule of law.

The Soqosoqo ni Vakavulewa ni Taukei called the decision unexpected and a surprise to them. General Secretary, Jone Banuve says the SVT has given Ratu Josefa their support and they are awaiting his deliberation. He says until than the SVT will not accept the Chaudhry Government but continue to support the interim administration.

The SVT management board meet next Tuesday to discuss the ruling.

The National Federation has also welcomed the Court of Appeal decision and hopes the interim President, the army, police and the interim administration will quickly initiate a peaceful and orderly return to constitutional governance . General Secretary Attar Singh says this must be done for the sake of lasting political stability and economic recovery.

The United General Party's Emelita Wilson has described the ruling as very clear by controversial. She believes it now a question of finding the best way to apply the rule of law in a highly complicated situation. Wilson says a lot of political issues comes into play now and the approach taken on all sides should be to proceed softly.

Wilson reiterates that this is the time for patience and deliberation and says the role of the President becomes very important.

Fiji First Movement says it a moral and just victory for the citizens of Fiji. They call on all political parties to work with Ratu Josefa and form a government of national unity, and in doing so to put aside their individual interests and put Fiji first.

American Ambassador, Osman Siddique says the United States encourages a rapid and positive response from all parties that will lead the end to the current crisis in Fiji and to welcoming Fiji back into the community of democratic nations.

Interim Prime Minister and Minister for National Reconciliation & Unity
Address to the Nation
Thursday, March 01, 2001

Address to the Nation

Good evening my fellow citizens.

You have just heard His Excellency the President on the finding of the Fiji Court of Appeal. I wish to add to what His Excellency has said, so that you have as full an understanding as possible of the position at this time.

This is an unprecedented moment in Fiji's history. Never before has a Court decision had such a profound and far-reaching effect on the destiny of the nation. Its implications have significance for each one of us. I am sure the Judges will appreciate that we must now manage our way carefully through a most delicate stage of transition to ensure implementation. This is not going to happen overnight. It is a matter of moving from the certainty of where we are, to the uncertainty of where we now have to go. Many social and political questions must be considered. We will be guided at all times by the welfare of the people and the peace and security of the country.

His Excellency has told you about some of the steps planned for the immediate future. Let me fill in more details.

The State Law Office will spend tomorrow and the weekend studying the Appeal Court Judgement and preparing an analysis for Cabinet.

Cabinet is scheduled to have a special meeting on Tuesday morning, following which I will offer our advice to His Excellency.

As mentioned by His Excellency, there is to be a meeting of the Great Council of Chiefs. We are making all the necessary arrangements to have this on Thursday or Friday next week.

At the end of his consultations, His Excellency will then announce to the nation the pathway forward to returning our country to constitutional rule. This pathway will also ensure the effective maintenance of law and order and national security, and facilitate our coming together as a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural society to co-operate for our collective good.

Ladies and gentlemen, you will see that there is much to do. We are dealing here with the very future of Fiji. It is a heavy responsibility and I pledge that the Interim Government will do everything within its power to shepherd the country and its people safely through the days ahead. We need your support, we need the understanding and co-operation of the political parties. This is not a time for point-scoring, for declarations of victory, for loud and inflammatory statements. What the country requires now is diplomacy, tact and restraint. We must practise the tolerance and patience called for by His Excellency. We must devote ourselves to peace.

Ladies and gentlemen, tonight, I also have a message for the international community. Many countries and international organisations have shown a genuine concern for Fiji and we are grateful for that. Sadly, however, there are those who have acted more in their own self-interests than ours as a sovereign independent country. They do not really understand Fiji's problems; they have only managed to heighten internal tensions and widen the divisions between our two main communities. At times, it has seemed as though we are the victims of a new form of colonialism, with external pressure and threats coming in many forms. It is, apparently, acceptable to bully and threaten a small nation.

They come with their pre-conceived solution for our country. We must adopt their system of liberal democracy, their standard of human rights and the way they run their economy. It is as though we are incapable of thinking for ourselves, and to work out our own solutions, peacefully through dialogue, taking into account the complex nature of our multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country.

I say to these Governments and organisations, please leave us alone. The best contribution you can each one make in the present situation is to show your understanding and patience. Just as we would try to avoid making provocative statements about a delicate internal issue in another country, so we expect others to be considerate towards us. Fiji's difficulties will be resolved here, by the citizens of this land who must live with the consequences. Solutions will not be imposed on us by outsiders. We need time and space to repair the damage done to the country, to restore relationships and develop trust. Indeed, the biggest challenge for all of us in Fiji is to work together and co-operate in rebuilding trust and confidence between our communities.

Ladies and gentlemen, I urge you all to rally for Fiji, to pray for its future and to live in peace with your neighbours.

May God Bless you all and Fiji.

Why Iloilo can dissolve Parliament
Thursday, March 01, 2001

The way forward for Fiji is for the President Ratu Josefa Iloilo to reconvene Parliament, say Chandrika Prasad’s counsels Geoffery Robertson and Professor George Williams.

But in a legal opinion sent to Fiji media earlier today, they admit that Iloilo has the power to dissolve Parliament and call fresh elections.

Here is their full opinion:

The Fiji Court of Appeal rejected the appeal lodged by the Interim Civilian Government (ICG). It upheld the decision of Justice Gates of the High Court of Fiji and declared that the 1997 Constitution is the supreme law of Fiji and remains in force.

On 29 May 2000, Commodore Bainimarama, Commander of the Fiji Military Forces, sought to abrogate the 1997 Constitution. The Court of Appeal held that this action was unlawful and ineffective. This means that the ICG created by the Fiji Military Forces is also unlawful and must relinquish power. The ICG stated before the Court of Appeal that it will accept the decision of this Court on whether the 1997 Constitution is still in existence.

The proper lawful course is that the Fiji Parliament elected in May 1999 be recalled as soon as possible. The Parliament would have the task of forming a government and choosing a Prime Minister. If it is unable to form a government, it should be dissolved and fresh elections held. Once a Prime Minister has been chosen, a new President should be appointed.

Recall of Parliament

As a consequence of the Court of Appeal’s decision, the Fiji Parliament has not been dissolved and is still in existence. Parliament may be recalled by the President of Fiji acting on the advice of the Prime Minister. Where there is doubt about whether there is a Prime Minster (as in this case), there is another means of recalling Parliament.

The last session of Parliament was prorogued (or ended) for six months by the President on 27 May 2000. A new session of Parliament thus began on 27 November 2000 (section 68(2) of the 1997 Constitution states that no longerthan 6 months must elapse between the end of one session and the start of another). Under section 68(4), Parliament must be recalled by the Speaker where he receives a request in writing from not less than 18 members of the House. Where the Speaker has died (as in this case), his functions are performed by the Deputy Speaker (section 80(4)).

Can an election be held now?

Parliament may be dissolved and fresh elections called by the President of Fiji only in accordance with the 1997 Constitution. Section 59 provides (our emphasis): The House of Representatives, unless sooner dissolved, continues for 5 years from the date of its first meeting after a general election of members of the House.

Section 96 provides that the President acts only on the advice of the Cabinet or a Minister or of some other body or authority prescribed by this Constitution and that this Constitution prescribes the circumstances in which the President may act in his or her own judgment.

If the President has dismissed the Prime Minister, then he may appoint a person as a caretaker Prime Minister to advise a dissolution of the Parliament (section 109 (2)). However, it is unclear whether the PrimeMinister has been lawfully dismissed.

In strictly limited circumstances the President might dissolve Parliament without acting on the advice of a Prime Minister. The President, like the Australian Governor-General and similar office holders in other Commonwealth nations, may possess "reserve powers" to be unilaterally invoked by him in acrisis situation. Such a situation might arise if it is clear that Parliament is unworkable and incapable of producing a government. In this event, the President might himself act to dissolve Parliament and call fresh elections. Such a power could not be applied to any greater extent.

When would an election take place?

Once Parliament is dissolved, writs for a general election issue "within 7Days" (section 60(2)). Candidates then have 14 days after the issue of the writs to nominate for election (section 61). Polling commences not later than 30 days after the last day for the receipt of nominations (section 62).

This sequence means that an election must be held at most 51 days after the dissolution of Parliament.

But the President has resigned

The President, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, resigned with effect from 15 December 2000. Section 88 provides that the Vice-President may exercise his functions for 3 months after this date (that is, until 15 March 2001). After that date, the powers of the President may be exercised by the Speaker of the House of Representatives (or by his Deputy).

Parliament should be recalled and a new Prime Minister chosen before a new President is appointed. Section 90 provides (our emphasis): "The President and Vice-President are appointed by the Bose Levu Vakaturaga after consultation by the Bose Levu Vakaturaga with the Prime Minister."

All eyes on Fiji
Thursday, March 01, 2001

Fiji citizens must deal with the court of appeal’s ruling in a mature way as the nation is now being watched closely by the rest of the world, says interim president Ratu Josefa Iloilo.

Ratu Iloilo made this statement in his address to the nation of Fiji at 7pm this evening.

He added that the interim administration will now have to make necessary decisions to return Fiji to full constitutional rule.

Ratu Iloilo also asked for the Great Council of Chiefs to reconvene as soon as possible.

"This is necessary as the Great Council of Chiefs needs to be consulted on matters of national importance," he said.

"At the council meeting I will report to them on the outcome of the court of appeal hearing and seek their advice and support as the highest representative council of the indigenous Fijian and Rotuman community."

The interim president also called for the people of Fiji to work together in maintaining peace.

US slates Qarase regime's human rights

Feb 28 2001 - People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands

The US government has slated the Qarase regime's record of human rights.

In its annual report on Fiji, the US government says, amongst other things, that:

* The regime's human rights record deteriorated during the year and is generally poor.

* With the ouster of a democratically elected Government, the purported abrogation of the Constitution in May, and the installation of a military-backed civilian interim administration in July, citizens lost the right peacefully to change their government.

* A major human rights problem remains ethnically based discrimination. A number of government policies, including hiring practices, education policies, and land tenure preferences continue to provide protection for indigenous Fijian interests.

* Other human rights problems include several political and extrajudicial killings; occasional police and military abuse of detainees and suspects; informal and formal constraints on the freedom of speech and the press and self-censorship; restrictions on freedom of assembly and movement; violence and discrimination against women; instances of abuse of children; racial discrimination and violence; reports of forced labor; and trafficking in persons.

* Ethnically motivated societal violence led to abuses, including looting and destruction of property.
* Rebel forces committed abuses, including killings and beatings.
* several resorts were taken over and some foreign tourists were held hostage.

* Roads were barricaded, public and private property was seized by rebel sympathizers, troops on Vanua Levu mutinied, Indo-Fijian settlements were terrorized by Ethnic Fijians, and Indo-Fijian businesses were looted and burned

* There were reports of arbitrary arrests of persons by civil and military authorities, followed by beatings and release in remote places.

* A number of steps were taken to limit citizens' ability to speak publicly or privately about issues such as human rights and democracy; meetings and protests concerning such topics were cancelled and otherwise limited by the authorities

* The media operate without prior censorship but with considerable self-censorship. Government ownership of shares in the Fiji Post newspaper and its links to the Fiji Sun newspaper through Fijian Holdings, an investment company on whose board a number of ministers have served, call into question the complete independence of the press.

The full report is found at http://www.pcgov.org.fj/docs_o/usdoshrr_feb01.htm

Fiji's report on racial discrimination seriously overdue, says UN

Feb 28 2001 - People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands

The United Nations says that Fiji's report on racial discrimination in Fiji is "seriously overdue".

A circular by the UN's Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination dated 12 December 2000 lists Fiji in the group of 8 other countries in similar status. The 8 are: Côte d'Ivoire, Gambia, Jamaica, Qatar, the Lao People's Democratic Republic, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Togo.

That the Qarase regime has taken Fiji to the level of Sierra Leone, Gambia and other similar nations speaks volumes for the depth to which this regime will sunk Fiji.

The CERD, which meets from 6 to 23rd March in Geneva, will review the implementation of the `Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination' in Fiji.

It will also discuss ways to prevent racial discrimination, for example, take "early warning measures aimed at preventing existing problems from escalating into conflicts; or it may decide to initiate urgent action procedures aimed at responding to problems requiring immediate attention to prevent or limit the scale or number of serious violations of the Convention. The Committee may also take action or further action regarding States parties already considered under this item."

The Qarase regime has put in place numerous discriminatory measures against the country's ethnic Indians. One such set of measures is contained in the regime's "Blueprint" (see http://www.pcgov.org.fj/docs_o/blueprint_000713.htm). State-sponsored racism in Fiji has been defended by regime Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase as affirmative action policy.

Landlord demands tenant's daughter as premium

Feb 28 2001 - People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands

A landlord outside Suva City demanded the teenage daughter of his tenant in place of a financial `goodwill' for staying on his land.

State owned Radio Fiji reported last night that the tenant, an ethnic Indian, was asked by the landlord to pay a goodwill of $1000.00 to him. Later the landlord's son, an ethnic Fijian, came to the tenant demanding that if the tenant did not have the money to pay them, then he should give his daughter to him.

The tenant has moved out of the land.

Ethnic Fijians own 83% of all land in Fiji. The land is administered by the Native Lands Trust Board (NLTB). Since the terrorist crisis in Fiji, the NLTB began evicting the ethnic Indian tenants through out the country. One NLTB official was quoted by the media as saying to the effect that they wanted to see where the ethnic Indians would stay, on water, or in the air.

Except for one newspaper, the tenants' plight has not received any publicity in the mainstream Fiji media. A highly acclaimed documentary produced by the Australian SBS TV station has also not been shown on Fiji TV despite massive demand for it.

But the plight has been well aired abroad. After such outcry abroad, the NLTB eased with the evictions and began offering residential leases to the tenants for a large premia and administrative charges, often running into many thousands of dollars. But farmers and their organizations have rejected the concept of residential leases, despite the National Federation Party, which was once a coalition partner to the SVT, asking the farmers to accept the residential leases.

Increasing landlessness and dispossession of largely the ethnic Indian population in Fiji has received the endorsement of the Qarase regime. Ironically, some of Fiji's leading business houses mostly belonging to the ethnic Indians, have shown support to the Qarase regime. Corruption under the regime is rife.

Police Commissioner Isikia Savua has again started meddling in politics.

March 1 2001 - People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands

At a press conference yesterday, Savua stated that the formation of another ethnic Fijian political party will further divide ethnic Fijians.

He was responding to the reported formation of a political party known as Fijian Congress Party by supporters of terrorist George Speight.

Savua stated that if this party is formed, the division will be greater. He said: "Already there are cracks emerging and if they come through, the cracks are going to widen and these are concerns that should be identified".

Savua also stated that the division within the ethnic Fijians led to "Mahend Chaudhry" becoming the Prime Minister. He stated: "Had Fijians united to fight the elections, they would have had a Fijian Prime Minister. We must have unity amongst Fijians".

He also stated that if people did not agree with his views, then it was their problem and not his.

The statements confirm that Savua is seeing his role as safeguarding only the political rights of ethnic Fijians. The people of Fiji have lost confidence in Savua's leadership of the police force. Wherever in a multi-racial country the head of the police department shows such partisanship, the state of law and order in that nation is doomed. With this the nation also sinks.

Meanwhile Savua has assured the people that the police force will maintain law and order

Tourism industry loses $250m

March 1 2001 - People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands

The tourism industry has lost over $250m due to the effects of the terrorist crisis.

Fiji Visitors Bureau's Director of Marketing, Bill Whiting has been quoted by today's Fiji Times as saying that the industry lost $225m excluding the loss to the Air Pacific. Air Pacific is expecting a loss of $28m this year.

Fiji experienced an all-time record visitor arrival of over 410,000 in 1999, the year in which the People's Coalition Government took office.

The Visitors Bureau expects that this level can not be achieved at best until next year, though independent industry analysts say that the repeat of the 1999 type boom can not be expected within the next 10 years. "Though visitor arrivals may pick up, the spending levels in Fiji will not rise proportionately because of a significant change in the quality of visitors arriving in Fiji", he stated.

Meanwhile assaults on tourists continues. The American tourist-cum-investor, Ven Lambert, who was brutally assaulted while sleeping in his home, has been flown to Suva for further medical treatment.

Prominent people on list of terrorist supporters

March 1 2001 - People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands

A list circulating in Fiji lists about 30 prominent companies and people who allegedly financed the terrorist activities last May.

The document states that US, Australia, New Zealand and British governments have banned 150 people from entering their countries because they actively supported the terrorists to takeover the legitimate government. It asks the people to Fiji to boycott these people and their businesses.

Included in the list are some of Fiji's top business houses, defeated politicians, transport companies, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, and manufacturers.

The list, apparently based on the list of people banned by the US, Australia, NZ and UK from entering those countries, states that more names of people who funded the terrorists, will follow.

Months ago, the police had stated that it had enough evidence to charge the businessmen involved with funding the terrorists. A media report stated that over 26 businessmen alleged to have funded George Speight were being investigated. It is not clear whether the 26 people being investigated by the police are the same as those on the list. So far no businessmen has been charged.

More garment factories to closeMarch 1 2001 - People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands

The garment industry believes that more garment factories are likely to close in the coming weeks.

Media reports quote the President of the Fiji-Australia Business Council, Mark Halabe as saying that he expects more factories to close and workers to be laid off in the coming weeks. He is quoted as saying: "Buyers from overseas will not do business if there are threats of trade bans and political instability. Its simple - if there is instability there will be no orders".

Two factories based in Lautoka closed down and removed equipment from their premises two weeks ago. About 1000 workers were laid off.

Numerous reasons were cited, but it is understood that the main reason for one of them closing was the expiry of the 13-year tax holiday which it received. The regime after the 1987 military coups had introduced a 13-year tax free holiday package to attract investors. The Qarase regime has recently announced that there will be no new tax holidays.

Another factory closed because it had financial difficulties. One of the two factories closed is relocating to Vietnam.

Fiji free from racial prejudice, says PM Chaudhry

Feb 28 2001 - People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands

Fiji should be free from racial prejudice, says the democratically elected Prime Minister of Fiji, Mahendra Chaudhry.

In a Hardtalk interview with the Fiji Sun, Chaudhry stated that his vision for Fiji was:

"A Fiji free from racial prejudice where our people live together in peace, harmony, understanding and appreciating the diversity of our cultures."

"A Fiji with high levels of economic growth, developing to the full its human and natural resources, which can provide quality, well paying jobs for the growing number of our young men and women who are crying out for a fair chance to make an honest living. A Fiji where men and women have equal opportunity to utilise their talents, develop their potential and realise their aspirations in life."

"A Fiji where social justice prevails, where workers receive a fair wage for a fair day's work and are rewarded for their drive and initiative. A Fiji where rural development is given as much emphasis as urban, so that people in villages and settlements are not deprived of the benefits of modern living."

"A Fiji where the indigenous people enjoy improved standards of living and lifestyles through the sustainable development of their natural resources such as land, fisheries and forests."

"A Fiji where we all as citizens take special pride in preserving the unspoilt beauty and natural attractions of our environment, where we respect our bounteous gift from God and work together to keep it clean and wholesome with political and economic stability required to achieve more of our special goals."

"My vision for our small island nation Fiji can be aptly summed up in a short phrase: Land of opportunities, health and prosperity for all our people."

Chaudhry also stated that the economy was rapidly sliding down, unemployment has reached huge proportions, public enterprises are making millions of dollars of losses, tax evasion is rife, and poverty is on the rise. The full text of the interview is found at: http://www.pcgov.org.fj/docs_c/hardtalk_pm_28feb.htm

UN to question Fiji on racism

Feb 27 2001 - People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands

The UN will be petitioned to list Fiji as a country with persistent racial discrimination.

Democracy supporters in Fiji are taking their case to the United Nations in an effort to dislodge a military-backed government in the Pacific nation.

While they wait for a court ruling that could mean the imposition of region's first apartheid regime, activists seeking a return to democracy will lobby the UN's Committee on the Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) at its meeting next month.

The meeting of the Committee to discuss Fiji is scheduled for 12March.

The CERD moved Fiji up its agenda after a coup last year following which the military appointed an "interim government" which has announced racially-supremacist policies in favour of the indigenous Fijian people who make up just over 50 per cent of the multiracial country.

Whites and Indians, descendants of indentured labourers brought over during colonial times, and other Pacific Islanders make up most of the rest of the population.

The CERD has previously questioned Fiji's racial policies, but allowed it to continue its development on the grounds that its Constitution explicitly forbade racial discrimination. However the openly racist stance of the interim government and many of it supporters has raised serious concerns in regional and international bodies.
While the coup makers last year claimed to be championing indigenous rights, the open support they have received from Indian and other businesses, and opposition they have faced from large sectors of the indigenous population, indicate that economic interests were in fact pulling the strings.

Submissions to the CERD next month will include documents presented in an Appeal Court case last week whose decision is expected any day now. The interim government had appealed a High Court ruling that it had been illegally installed by the military and should make way for a government of national unity.

Eminem protesters gather outside British music awards

LONDON (Reuters) - A handful of gay rights activists have gathered outside Britain's biggest pop music awards ceremony to protest against controversial U.S. rap star Eminem.

About 20 protesters waving pink flags and posters bearing the message "Don't reward homophobia" huddled in pouring rain outside the venue of the Brit Awards in Earls Court, west London on Monday night.

Eminem, who rapped his way to three Grammys in Los Angeles last week, is a favourite to win the Brit award for Best International Male.

He is due to perform his hit single "Stan" at the ceremony.

Tuesday February 27, 03:30 AM

Rapper Eminem speaks to the crowd after winning Best International Artist during the Brit Awards at the Earls Court arena in London February 26, 2001. REUTERS/POOL/John Stillwell-ouken

Inside the venue cream of the music industry was in attendance including pop star Elton John, ex-Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, 70s U.S. popstar Donny Osmond, Australian pop queen Kylie Minoque and British supergroup Oasis's Noel Gallagher.

Performing at the awards ceremony will be teenage chart-topper Craig David, Irish rock band U2 and British pop star Robbie Williams.

Earlier, silken-voiced David, who had two British number one singles and a chart- topping album in the past year, hit out at the Brit Award organisers after newspapers reported that he would leave the ceremony empty-handed because of the voting system despite being nominated in a record six categories.

"The Brit Awards need to look at the voting system. I think I have been a victim of my own success -- because I was nominated in six categories my voting has been spread," 19-year-old David said in an interview with Britain's Sun tabloid.

Nominees for the Brit Awards, Britain's equivalent of the Grammy's, are voted for by more than 1,000 music industry, retail and media workers.

Thursday March 1 1:10 AM ET
Indonesia's Megawati Visits Battered Borneo

By Darren Whiteside

SAMPIT, Indonesia (Reuters) - Indonesian Vice President Megawati Sukarnoputri toured Borneo on Thursday to inspect efforts to end nearly two weeks of ethnic violence that have seen hundreds of people killed and tens of thousands more made homeless.

Her visit comes amid growing pressure for President Abdurrahman Wahid to cut short a controversial two-week foreign tour and return home to personally oversee the crisis in Central Kalimantan.

A Madurese refugee (C) carrying his daughter reaches for relief supplies outside a police station in the riot torn town of Sampit after more than 10 days of ethnic violence on the island of Borneo, February 28, 2001. Thousands of Madurese refugees are in Sampit waiting to be evacuated to safety in Java. (Darren Whiteside/Reuters)

Hundreds of people have been butchered and about 50,000 others forced from their homes after indigenous Dayaks in the Indonesian part of Borneo island went on a killing spree to drive out settlers from Madura.

The government appeared slow to react to the crisis, with security forces seeming incapable of stopping the bloodletting.

Megawati on Thursday visited some of the tens of thousands of refugees awaiting evacuation from the port town of Sampit, scene of some of the worst violence.

She hugged and kissed refugees and was cheered as she walked through the crowd.

Megawati is to decide later on Thursday whether to declare a civil emergency in the province, but national police chief General Bimantoro said the crisis had eased.

Death Toll Rises

Civil emergency is one step down from martial law. But declaring a civil emergency would make almost no practical difference because many of the measures it allows -- such as curfews and searches -- are already in place.

The provincial governor told Megawati that at least 469 people had died since the killing began 11 days ago. Media reports put the toll as high as 600.

The Borneo carnage has given Wahid's enemies fresh ammunition to attack a leader already facing possible impeachment after being censured by parliament over two financial scandals.

Madurese refugee children beg for food through the fence of a police station in the riot-torn town of Sampit after more than 10 days of ethnic violence on the island of Borneo February 28, 2001. Thousands of Madurese refugees are in Sampit waiting to be evacuated to safety in Java. (Darren Whiteside/Reuters)

More than 1,000 students marched through the streets of the capital Jakarta on Thursday, demanding Wahid return immediately and quit the presidency.

Protesters called on Wahid to be held accountable for his leadership failures, waving banners reading ``Come back home or do not come back at all!'' and ``Welcome Home, Mr. former President.''

There were no immediate reports of trouble.

Wahid's overseas tour includes the Haj pilgrimage to Mecca, but Muslim leaders said to do so while his country was in tatters was wrong.

``You should not perform the pilgrimage if your household is in trouble,'' the Jakarta Post daily quoted Azyumardi Azra, rector of the Syarif Hidayatullah State Institute for Islamic Studies as saying.

``If he insists on performing the pilgrimage, this is haram (forbidden).''

I am still PM: Chaudhry
Thursday, March 01, 2001

Deposed Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry says he is still the lawful PM of Fiji.

This follows the Fiji Court of Appeal ruling earlier today declaring the interim government illegal and dismissing an appeal by it that the 1997 Constitution has been abrogated.

Chaudhry told New Zealand’s TV3 from New Delhi that he expected the decision and was pleased by the court ruling.

He said his priority was to ensure that Parliament was reconvened and hoped the people respected the court’s decision.

Chaudhry also said he hoped that Parliament was not dissolved.

His deputy Dr Tupeni Baba said he would wait for Chaudhry to return on Sunday before deciding what action the parry would take.

Chiefs to meet next week
Thursday, March 01, 2001

The Great Council of Chiefs is expected to meet next Thursday.

This follows the Fiji Court of Appeal ruling earlier today declaring the interim government illegal and dismissing an appeal by it that the 1997 Constitution has been abrogated.

A meeting between Fijian Affairs Minister Ratu Epeli Nailatikau and Great Council of Chiefs chairman Major-General Sitiveni Rabuka will decide on the agenda. Rabuka is currently in Australia.

The meeting is expected to look at the court’s ruling, and will possibly look at appointing acting President Ratu Josefa Iloilo as President officially.

The court has ruled that the office of the President became vacant with the resignation of Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara on December 15, 2000.

Section 88 of the 1997 Constitution allows for the Vice-President (Ratu Josefa Iloilo) to act in the position until March 15, 2001 unless a new President if appointed under Section 90 of the Constitution.

It is believed the meeting could be held at the Fiji Military Forces headquarters.

Meanwhile it is believed there is to be a meeting of all indigenous Fijian political parties on March 7, a day before the GCC meeting.

A win for the country
Thursday, March 01, 2001

Muaniweni farmer, Chandrika Prasad said his landmark win on the Court of Appeal case today was not for himself but for everyone in Fiji.

Prasad also expressed his happiness in the Court of Appeal's decision to reaffirm the validity of the 1997 Constitution.

"I'm very happy with the judgment, and it was not for myself but for all the people in the country," Prasad said.

Prasad urged people in the country to unite and work peacefully towards a better Fiji.

Judgment is moral : Fiji First
Thursday, March 01, 2001

The Fiji First Movement described the court of appeal's judgment as moral and just to Fiji's citizens.

It has called for other parties to support Ratu Josefa Iloilo and help in the formation of a government of national unity.

The party said this action puts aside individual interests and puts Fiji first in the minds of people in country.

UGP says judgment is controversial
Thursday, March 01, 2001

The judgement passed by the Court of Appeal today is clear but controversial says the United General Party.

UGP's Emelita Wilson said the country will now have to find the best solution to apply the rule of law in "a highly complicated situation".

Wilson says a lot of political issues come into play now and approaches taken by all sides should be taken softly.

SVT won’t support Chaudhry
Thursday, March 01, 2001

The main Fijian party, the Soqosoqo ni Vakavulewa ni Taukei, says it will not support the return to power of the Mahendra Chaudhry government.

This follows the Fiji Court of Appeal ruling a short while ago declaring the interim government illegal and dismissing an appeal by it that the 1997 Constitution has been abrogated.

In a statement, the SVT says the ruling was "unexpected" and had surprised the party.

The party was committed to supporting acting President Ratu Josefa Iloilo and would await his deliberations.

Earlier the United General Party called the decision clear but controversial.

A party spokesperson called on all political parties to tread softly as there were highly complicated and political issues to be considered.

CCF wants a GNU
Thursday, March 01, 2001

The Citizens Constitutional Forum has called for the formation of a government of national unity.

This follows the Fiji Court of Appeal ruling a short while ago declaring the interim government illegal and dismissing an appeal by it that the 1997 Constitution has been abrogated.

The CCF said the ruling was "a victory for human rights and justice in Fiji".

It hoped a government of national unity will be formed from within Parliament to take Fiji forward.

"The interim administration should remain until the government of national unity is ready to take over," it said in a statement.

1997 Constitution stands
Thursday, March 01, 2001

The 1997 Constitution remains the supreme law of the land and has not been abrogated.

The Fiji Court of Appeal made the declaration a short while ago when dismissing an appeal by the interim government that the 1997 Constitution has been abrogated.

Court president Sir Maurice Casey told the court they had not found evidence to substantiate claims that the 1997 Constitution had failed.

In fact, he said it provided for the extensive safeguard of indigenous Fijian rights.

But he said an analysis of the voting in the last election had shown that even under the first-past-the-post voting system, the government of deposed Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry would still have won.

He said the doctrine of necessity and public safety could not justify the abrogation of the Constitution.

Court dismisses govt appeal
Thursday, March 01, 2001

The Fiji Court of Appeal dismissed an appeal by the interim government that the 1997 Constitution has been abrogated a few minutes ago.

Fiji Court of Appeal president Sir Maurice Casey made the following declarations a short while ago:

• The 1997 Constitution remains the supreme law of the land and has not been abrogated.
• The last Parliament was not dissolved but was prorogued for six months
• The office of the President became vacant with the resignation of Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara on December 15, 2000. Section 88 of the 1997 Constitution allows for the Vice-President (Ratu Josefa Iloilo) to act in the position until March 15, 2001 unless a new President if appointed under Section 90 of the Constitution.
• The interim government’s appeal is dismissed with costs of around $50,000 and accommodation and other expenses to be paid by the government

NZ prefers govt of unity
Thursday, March 01, 2001

As the international community awaits today's Court of Appeal ruling on the validity of Fiji's 1997 Constitution, New Zealand has shown they prefer Fiji going back to constitutional rule under a government of national unity.

New Zealand's foreign affairs minister Phil Goff said the formation of a GNU would mean that coup leader George Speight's objectives would be met.

"It was certainly the desire of the rebels to do away with an Indian prime minister but also to do away with the democratic government and to put in place something that supported them and their cronies," Goff said.

"It's not for the outside world to say who should become prime minister or what from of government there should be other than the democratic and constitutional requirements under which Fiji lives in," he added.

Special cabinet meeting
Thursday, March 01, 2001

A special cabinet meeting will be held tomorrow to discuss today's Court of Appeal decision.

This was confirmed by the information minister Ratu Inoke Kubuabola.

Head judge of the Court of Appeal, Justice Sir Maurice Casey will today announce the decision that will decide the future of Fiji.

The judgement which is expected to be delivered at 2.15pm today, will decide whether the Justice Anthony Gates' ruling on the validity of the 1997 Constitution stands.

Meanwhile president Ratu Josefa Iloilo will address the nation at 7pm tonight. Interim prime minister Laisenia Qarase will also
address the nation at 7.45pm.

Mother attacked, robbed

Fiji Times - March 1 2001

A WOMAN is at home nursing her injuries after being attacked and robbed by two armed youths on Monday.
Manju Lata, 44, was alone at her Naikabula home, just outside Lautoka City, when the offenders pounced on her.
"I was sitting at the back when the two youths approached me and dragged me inside the house,'' she said.
"They were not masked but they were armed with a cane knife, a stick and a kitchen knife, which they thrust at my throat.
"They dragged me inside the house and assaulted me before pulling the ear-rings from my ears and a chain that I was wearing on my neck.''
Ms Lata said one of the youths then shoved a piece of cloth inside her mouth and ordered her to keep still.
She said the robbers also ransacked the house.
The robbers fled with a video deck valued at $600 and a radio cassette recorder worth $200.
Ms Lata, who suffered facial injuries and bruises to her ears and neck, said the robbers struck their house again on Monday night.
She said small items including a shaving gear, soap, buckets and lights were stolen.
"We moved in to the house about four months ago and I am really frightened after what happened on Monday,'' Ms Lata said.
"The area is densely-populated and police should consider building a police post for the safety of residents because it is no longer safe even in the day.''
DPC Western Senior Superintendent Eroni Antonio said police were investigating the incident.

Chaudhry seeks help for farmers
Wednesday, February 28, 2001

Chaudhry seeks help for farmers Ousted Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry visited India over the weekend to seek assistance from the Indian Government for the displaced Indo-Fijian Framers.

First Secretary at the Indian High Commission, Karamjit Bharti, confirmed Chaudry's trip to India. Bharti said Chaudhry met with the Indian Prime Minister Atal Biharu Vajpayee on Monday to discuss the plight of Indo-Fijian farmers.

"It is Chaudhry's private trip and he had sought an appointment to meet our Prime Minister sometime ago," Bharti said.

Fiji's Daily Post

Crime ring exploits human rights
Wednesday, February 28, 2001

A crime ring of Chinese nationals is believed to be operating in Fiji, and have been reported to be violating human rights.

The United States report on human rights released this month says that Asians brought into Fiji by the ring were being exploited and were working under poor conditions.

A media account highlighted that the report mentioned the exploitation of Asian garment workers as prostitutes.

The report also said that there are currently no laws in Fiji that handle issues of trafficking of people.

Security forces get ready for tomorrow
Wednesday, February 28, 2001

Security is tight in the capital city tonight following threats and rumours of instability tomorrow.

Police presence in Suva has increased and the Government Building is tightly guarded.

The army has also based themselves at crucial points.

Army spokesperson Colonel Ileisa Tagitupou said extraordinary measures will be taken to avoid any unwanted situation.

Police Commissioner Isikia Savua confirmed they had received bomb threats last week.

Government Buildings will be sealed off tonight after a bomb check.

The Fiji Court of Appeal decision will be announced at 2.15pm tomorrow with live broadcast on Fiji One.

Speight supporters want new party
Wednesday, February 28, 2001

George Speight supporters plan to form a new Fijan party to fight the next elections.

The Party will be called the Fijian National Congress Party.

Commenting on the move Police Commissioner Isikia Savua said it will widen the gap between Fijian parties.

He said this was the reason for their loss in 1999.

He said their should be unity among the Fijians.

MORE HUMAN RIGHTS

Radio Fiji - 25 Feb 2001

An U.S STATE DEPARTMENT's report on human rights in FIJI claims that trafficking in persons, especially women is a problem.

According to the 13-page report, there are no laws to specifically address people trafficking, although laws for bonded and forced labour can be used to prosecute traffickers.

The report noted an increase in the number of people arriving or transiting in the country with altered or falsified documents.

There was an increase in the number of ASIAN nationals without proper travel documents.

According to the report, police believe there is an organized ASIAN criminal network in the country that coordinates illegal trafficking in persons.

There were also unconfirmed reports that some laborers recruited from ASIAN countries particularly in the garment sector are held in conditions of forced labour.

There were also reports that CHINESE women working in the garment sector may be involved in prostitution.

The report for the year 2000 was released by the U.S STATE DEPARTMENT yesterday.

FIJI RIGHTS ABUSES 

The U.S STATE DEPARTMENT's report on human rights in FIJI is critical of the army and police role during the political upheaval.

The report released yesterday claims military and police personnel sometimes abuse detainees and suspects.

It further says the authorities have punished some of the offending officers, but these punishments have not deterred all police abuses.

The annual report for last year, says there are numerous reports that military and police authorities used excessive force when apprehending and interrogating suspects.

It says there are reports of the abuses continuing after the suspects were released on bail.

Concerns were also raised about police investigations of the takeover of parliament in MAY last year.

According to the BUREAU of DEMOCRACY, HUMAN RIGHTS and LABOUR's report, ethnicity remains a dominant factor in FIJIAN life and affects the country's politics, economy and society.

On women, the report says ethnic FIJIANS are more likely to rise to prominence in their own right then indo-FIJIAN women.

It says ethnic FIJIAN women have full rights of property ownership and inheritance and several are successful entrepreneurs.

The report raised concerns about children dropping out of school and their inability to pay school fees and their security following the upheaval.

The comprehensive report will be among other country reports to be presented to the U.S CONGRESS.

Rapist jailed for 5 years
Thursday, February 22, 2001

A man who raped a woman earlier this month was jailed for 5 years by Labasa Magistrate Epeli Rokoika yesterday.

The accused claimed that he did not realise the consequence of his actions because he was drunk at the time. He raped the woman at her home, while she was sleeping.

She reported the incidence immediately and the accused was arrested shortly afterwards.

The Fiji Times

Congratulations
Monday, February 26, 2001

FIJIANS and Indians have been living as fellow countrymen for almost a century now. Yet, the two major racial groupings that make up almost 100 percent of Fiji's total population continue to drift apart in almost everything they do.Their racial divide continue to be socially, economically, politically, traditionally and even religiously segregated.

Despite the best of efforts to try and bridge the racial gap, the two major races continue to be suspicious of each other.

Race continue to play a major role in the lives of Indians and Fijians. They live harmoniously as neighbours, they work together, travel together, eat together and converse together, but when it comes to the point where we have to stand up and be counted, race rears its ugly head again.

It stands out like a sore thump in the current political unrest. It has become a racial issue. It has become a fight between Fijians and Indians.

It hurts, unfortunately that is the gospel truth. What then can be done to bridge the racial divide? It will take tonnes of goodwill and understanding. That is the long term solution.

But the immediate answer lies in mixed marriages. That is why this newspaper congratulates Maika Vakamelei and Anita Singh for joining together in holy matrimony at Wairabetia at the weekend exchanging their "until death do us part" vows. There is hope yet for Fiji.

Chaudhry seeks help for farmers
Wednesday, February 28, 2001

Chaudhry seeks help for farmers Ousted Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry visited India over the weekend to seek assistance from the Indian Government for the displaced Indo-Fijian Framers.

First Secretary at the Indian High Commission, Karamjit Bharti, confirmed Chaudry's trip to India. Bharti said Chaudhry met with the Indian Prime Minister Atal Biharu Vajpayee on Monday to discuss the plight of Indo-Fijian farmers.

"It is Chaudhry's private trip and he had sought an appointment to meet our Prime Minister sometime ago," Bharti said.

Fiji's Daily Post

Chandrika beaten
Wednesday, February 28, 2001

Chandrika Prasad, a Naitasiri farmer, was beaten by thugs after he was mistaken for the respondent in the Court of Appeal case on the Justice Gate ruling, also known as Chandrika Prasad.

The unfortunate Prasad who was attacked, is a farmer from Viria Village in Naitasiri. But the other Prasad, who won a landmark case with Justice Anthony Gates validating the 1997 Constitution, is from Muaniweni also in Naitasiri.

The incident has been confirmed by both the military and the Fiji Human Rights Commission. However Nausori police could not confirm the report of physical violence but admitted that reports were made of threats against Chandrika Prasad.

Military spokesperson Lieutenant Ilaisa Tagitupou said the police were working on rounding up those responsible for the attack.

Fiji Human Rights Commission Director Shaista Shameem said they have been instructed to investigate the case.

She added that further comments would be made after a conclusion to the investigations.

PM spells out vision
Wednesday, February 28, 2001

The Court of Appeal will rule tomorrow whether a new government must be formed in Fiji and the constitution, scrapped after last year’s nationalist coup reinstated.

In an interview two weeks ago, the interim prime minister of Fiji, Laisenia Qarase, spells out clearly the nationalist agenda bequethed to him by coup leader George Speight and reveals how his regime plans to extend and entrench the power of the chiefs if it wins in court.

Why did you appeal against the High /court ruling which declared your regime illegal ad called for the restoration of the Chaudhry government?

The ruling by(Justice Anthony) Gates (on November 15) said that the 1997 Constitution was still in place, that the former president (Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara) is still president and that we should reconvene Parliament and appoint a prime minister. So it (the ruling) strikes at the very foundation of the existence of the interim government. WE were asked to take on this role on the basis that the 1997 Constitution had been abrogated. WE have been managing the country on that basis. So we need that confirmation so that we can progress Fiji further towards parliamentary democracy.

So whatever the Appeals Court decision your government will obey that ruling?

If the decision is in our favor then the path is very clear we will continue the process that we have already begun (running the government while drafting a new Constitution). If the decision is against us, we will have to take the best option for the country. Within the law.

What might those options be? No, I have to advise His Excelllency the President (chuckles) and that will remain with me.

Can you explain what it is about the 1997 Constitution that you find so objective? The Constitution Review Commission has been travelling around the country until it was suspended a couple of weeks back and there have been quite a number of submissions from indigenous Fijian. They seem to be honing in on a number of areas. One of those areas is, of course the leadership issue. The President’s position and the way he is appointed (by the Great Council of Chiefs) is accepted by all. Another important debate is the position of the prime minister.

You would like the position of prime minister reserved for a Fijian? I would like to see that. At least at this point in our history. It will ensure long-term stability for the country while at the same time there has to be education and attempts to change attitudes so that 20 or 30 years down the road people will accept anybody as prime minister.

Could you explain your timetable for the restoration of democracy in Fiji? Before the Constitutional Review Commission was suspended (as illegal by the Fiji High Court) our time frame was elections between March and June nest year. Now with the work of that commission suspended, we will have to review that timeframe.

What would your own preference be? The sooner the better.

And would you contest those elections as a candidate? I have not made a decsision yet.

People outside Fiji find it difficult to understand why the Great Council of Chiefs exercise so much direct control over government here. Isn’t this the real cause of political instability in Fiji? Not necessarily. The Great Council of Chiefs have the right to appoint the president under the 1997 Constitution an authority they exercised on this occasion, assuming of course that our constitution was abrogated. So they did that. The president then appointed myself as prime minister. In a lot of my (recent) speeches I have been saying that the Great Council of Chiefs remains our ultimate authority because we believe the 1997 Constitution has been abrogated. But things will completely change when we get back to normality.

Would the authority of the Great Council of Chiefs be enshrined in the new Constitution? Personally I believe the provision setting out and establishing the Great Council of Chiefs should be strengthened and perhaps extended to incorporate some of the very important functions that the council of chiefs has always been doing.

Why has it taken so long to get George Speight into court? When I’m asked that question I never attempt to reply because I believe in the British justice system, so I leave it to the courts to take its own process.

Wouldn’t Fijians be astonished if George Speight was not prosecuted for his part in the attempted coup? I’m not sure that it’s as simple as you’re suggesting. Take Milosevic for example. George Speight is nothing compared to that fellow. Milosevic is a mass murderer and none of the Western democracies has even bothered to try to locate this person.

Fiji's Daily Post

Govt hits out at racial claims
Wednesday, February 28, 2001

The interim administration has hit out at claims of racial discrimination in Fiji slamming critics condemning pro-Fijian government policies.

A government spokesperson reacted to media reports that human rights activists in Fiji and abroad would file complaints with the United Nations on the interim administration’s racist policies.

It was earlier reported human rights activists would lodge complaints with the UN Committee on the Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination regarding the discriminatory policies favouring indigenous Fijians.

"What is most unfortunate about these people is that most of them are Indians, and they will go to any length to categorize as racist anything positive that government does to assist Fijians in lifting the level of their participation in the economy, to bring them close to that of other communities," the spokesperson said.

"Yet the same people were conspicuously silent when deposed prime minister Mahendra Chaudhry introduced policies that were manifestly pro-Indian and anti-Fijian, like the $28,000 cash grant."

"These activities are selective in categorizing government policies they brand as racial and discriminatory."

Fiji's Daily Post

High court judges likely to resign
Wednesday, February 28, 2001

Three High court judges will reportedly resign if the Fiji Court of Appeal tomorrow rules the Constitutions has been abrogated.

A well-placed judiciary source said the three are weighing their options before the announcement of the historic decision.The source said the well-planned resignation were a matter of principle and conscience.

"The will simply find it difficult working under a justice system which allows and accepts the unlawful abrogation of a constitution ,and that too by the thugs like George Speight," the source said. "A precedent needs to be set now so that history doesn't repeat itself .

If the constitution is not upheld this time any rebel will ba able to walk with the gun and demand the abrogation of another constitution in future."

The source said the judges belive they would be risking their 'integrity' if they working in a system which legalised the overthrow of elected governments.

"Its about consinence, and perhaps we have some people around who are just who are just not willing to accept and allow an unlawful precedent to take place , which in the case is the aborigation of the 1997 constitution that has result out of an illegal overthrow of a democratically elected government.

"Well if they go ahead with their resignation, should theAppeals Court rule in favour of the abrogation, Fiji's judiciary will go through another big blow as one judge and some three magistrate have already resigned following the May 19 coup".

Question of Public Safety and security remains a prime concern as the country looks forward to the landmark judgement

The National Security Forces and the president's office continue with their call for all the communities of remain calm as they await the court's decision.

Fiji's Daily Post

Women cries foul
Wednesday, February 28, 2001

The Fiji Women's Crisis Centre is calling for an immediate investigation into alleged police brutality on two Labasa men and a woman arrested for murder.

Thirty-year-old Roshni Lata claims she was stripped naked and chilli rubbed while she was interrogated on her alleged involvement in the murder.

Her alleged accomplices, the two other men, were detained for the murder of a housegirl known only as Rukmani. FWCC coordinator, Shamima Ali yesterday said the two men were allegedly beaten up by police.

One of the men is admitted to the Labasa hospital. "If this accusation is true then it is an outrage and a total violation of human rights," Ms Ali said. "It is also a serious form of sexual assault on the woman."

Fiji's Daily Post

Youth suffer social problem
Tuesday, February 27, 2001

Many social problems faced by Pacific countries disproportionately affect young people, said the Coordinator of the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre, Shamima Ali.

Ms Ali made the comments after a 19-year-old Nadi girl went missing following her failure in the Fiji School Leaving Certificate Examination.

Divisional Police Commander Western Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Eroni Antonio said the girl was living with relatives who had enroled her into vocational school.

"But when it was time for her to go to school they discovered some of her clothes missing and reported the matter to the police immediately," he said. Ms Ali said youth participants at the 3rd Regional Meeting on Violence Against Women discussed this issue.

"Young people and women share many of the factors that make them more vulnerable to violence within our communities," Ms Ali said. "It is therefore important for young people in our network to get together to discuss these links."

Fiji's Daily Post

Fiji activists seek UN help
Tuesday, February 27, 2001

A London based pro-democracy group for Fiji said yesterday that its supporters here are taking their case to the United Nations in an effort to dislodge the Interim Government. The Movement for Democracy in Fiji said in an e-mailed statement late yesterday that democracy supporters in the country will lobby the United Nations when its anti-racial discrimination committee sits next month.

Movement chairman Dr Yusuf Roshan said the activists will take their grievances to the UN's Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) at its meeting next month. Dr Yusuf claimed that CERD moved Fiji up its agenda after the civil unrest began after the coup last May.

"Submissions to CERD next month will include documents in an Appeals Court case last week whose decision is expected (on Thursday)," Dr Yusuf said in the e-mail. It was unclear which groups constituted the "activists" who Dr Yusuf claimed were taking the case to the UN.

Meanwhile, in a second statement Dr Yusuf said the farmer who launched a legal challenge against the Interim Government has gone into hiding after being threatened by gangs. Chandrika Prasad, a farmer who was driven out of his Muainaweni farm in Naitasiri last year, is awaiting the Court of Appeal's decision on his claim that the military had no right to appoint a replacement government following the overthrow of the elected government. Dr Yusuf said Mr Prasad was given protection by Fiji Human Rights Commission director Dr Shaista Shameem on Friday.

He said Mr Prasad was moved again over the weekend from the refugee camp at the Lautoka Girmit Centre where he was staying with other Muainaweni refugees. Mr Prasad's lawyer Anu Patel confirmed he had gone into hiding for his safety but would not elaborate. FHRC spokeswoman Ritu Subrawhal did not confirm nor deny Mr Prasad was in hiding citing "safety reasons.

" Last December the High Court in Lautoka ruled in Mr Prasad's favour, declaring the military-appointed Interim Government illegal and ordering the President to recall parliament and arrange for a Government of National Unity (GNU). The Interim Administration appealed the ruling with the support of British Queen's Counsel Nicholas Blake of Cherie Booth's Matrix Chambers.

Fiji's Daily Post

Tuesday February 27 3:22 PM ET
Rain Threat Fails to Dampen Mardi Gras

By Jua Nyla Hutcheson

NEW ORLEANS (Reuters) - Threatening skies failed to dampen the spirits of more than a million revelers who poured into the streets on Tuesday for the annual bead-begging, beer-guzzling, flesh-baring extravaganza -- Mardi Gras.

By dawn, the all-night parties in New Orleans' French Quarter had dwindled to a smattering of tourists lurching back to their hotels amid tons of abandoned disposable cups and broken plastic beads for a nap before tackling the rest of the big day.

At the same time, families laden with children, rain gear, barbecue grills, ice chests, ladders and lawn chairs staked out prime parade viewing spots beneath massive live oaks along St. Charles Avenue, far away from the raunchier hard-drinking crowds near the quarter.

The citywide -- actually south Louisiana-wide -- Carnival celebration begins on Twelfth Night, Jan. 6, and keeps going through Mardi Gras, the last day before the solemn Christian Lenten season begins on Ash Wednesday.

Starting the day, famed clarinetist Pete Fountain and his ''Half-Fast Walking Club'' meandered along the parade route from the elegant Commander's Palace restaurant down St. Charles toward the quarter, making frequent stops at local watering holes for refreshment. Actor John Goodman, who joined the group several years ago, rode along on a truck with one of the bands.

Other marching clubs followed, tossing beaded necklaces and whetting the thickening crowds' taste for trinkets. Zulu, the city's only predominantly African-American Carnival club, was rolling soon afterward.

Mardi Gras revelers survey the scene on Bourbon Street from a French Quarter balcony in New Orleans February 26, 2001. Threatening skies failed to dampen the spirits of more than a million revelers who poured into the streets on Tuesday for the annual bead-begging, beer-guzzling, flesh-baring extravaganza. (/David Rae Morris/Reuters)

Club members, wearing traditional black-face makeup and mock native costumes, rode above the crowds on double-decker

floats, accompanied by marching bands and groups of twirlers as they tossed beads, flying discs and rubber spears and handed out the most coveted throw of Mardi Gras: Zulu coconuts, hand-painted by members.

Hot on Zulu's heels, the party rolled on as Rex, the King of Carnival, inched along the parade route with even more elaborate floats.

Pleading For Beads

Watchers shamelessly pleaded for beads and other throws, sometimes pointing to a nearby but unrelated child and yelling, ''Throw something for the baby!''

Wearing costumes on Mardi Gras -- from mundane to elaborate -- also is traditional, with whole families, groups of friends or even neighborhoods turning out in matching outfits.

Crawfish, Dalmatians, Sesame Street characters and Fruit of the Loom underwear's talking grapes make annual appearances.

Some opt just for face paint, while the more risqu strip down to body paint and a few strategically placed bits of leather or feathers. Everything is accompanied by the currency of Carnival: beads, beads and more beads.

Even the local newspaper, The Times-Picayune, offered a Mardi Gras editorial urging locals to ``mask,'' as costuming is called. ``Wear an orange (prison) jumpsuit and pretend you're one of Louisiana's fallen elected officials ... Go as Bill Clinton: Print up some fake pardons and hand them out to everyone on the parade route ... Go have fun.''

The last four or five days before Mardi Gras are an economic driver in New Orleans, with an estimated $1 billion economic impact. But the parades are primarily street parties paid for by locals for locals. The rest of the world is cordially invited.

Celebrated in New Orleans for more than a century, Mardi Gras here is normally free of the violence and lawlessness that marred events in Austin, Texas, and Seattle.

City officials credit that to a populace intensely interested in ``passing a good time'' and the internationally known laid-back crowd control tactics of New Orleans police officers. ``The only way we'd have a riot here is if parade riders didn't toss beads,'' said one bead-draped officer.

``Our worst concerns are somebody falling under a float -- so far not this year -- or somebody falling off of one. That's only happened once so far this year.''

Boy Scout Rift Now Possible Over Homosexuality Ban
By Jeff McKay
CNS Correspondent
February 27, 2001

New York City (CNSNews.com) - The Greater New York chapter of the Boy Scouts of America has 120 more days to "review their policies" about allowing homosexuals to serve in leadership positions.

The move is seen as a pressure tactic by the New York City Council to convince the local chapter of the Scouts to back away from the homosexual ban that was established by BSA national headquarters and legally ratified by the U.S. Supreme Court last summer.

The eventual outcome, however, "could lead to a permanent rift between the Boy Scouts of America and its New York troops," according to a board member of the New York Boy Scouts, who asked not to be identified,

At stake is whether the 130,000 member strong New York chapter will be able to continue using government-owned buildings, free of charge, for its meetings. Monday, the City Council, charging that the Scouts had violated the city's human rights law with its ban on homosexuals, debated whether to sever ties with the organization. Such a move would force the Scouts to conduct massive fundraising in order to rent new locations for their meetings.

The face-off in City Council chambers showed New York City's mostly democratic council members wanted to send a strong message to the Boy Scouts.

The hearing was to, "Investigate the nature and extent of the resources and special support the Boy Scouts of America receives from the City of New York and/or its uniformed forces, and explore whether such resources would be better spent on organizations that do not discriminate based upon sexual orientation."

Dan Gasparo, the Chief Executive Officer for the Greater New York chapter, told the council, "The programs of the Greater New York Boy Scouts do not discriminate. We are not a hate group."

Gasparo, in a prepared statement, recited the accomplishments of the Greater New York chapter, along with his belief that the Boy Scout Oath does not discriminate. He did admit, however, there may be a "difference of opinion between the national order and the New York chapter." If so, this could mark the first public split within the organization, over the policy involving homosexuality.

"While we are working with our national organization to address their interpretation,
our (the Greater New York chapter) interpretation of the standards has been, and continues to be, based upon a person's compliance with the values in the Scout Oath and Law, not in a person's sexual orientation," Gasparo said.

Patrick Stuhlman, spokesman for the Greater New York chapter of the Boy Scouts, says the city "has agreed to postpone any decision for 120 days so the Boy Scouts can review their policies." It appears both the New York chapter and the City Council believe a compromise can be reached.

Calls to the national Boy Scouts of America headquarters have not been returned.

The City of New York doesn't directly fund any Boy Scout programs, but the organization's subsidiary Explorer troops and Learning for Life groups meet on city property and are often led by police officers, correction officers and firefighters.

School Board Okays Homosexual Advocate Position
By Joanne M. Haas
CNS Correspondent
February 27, 2001

CLARIFICATION: Completes full meaning of acronym GLBTQ

Madison, Wisconsin (CNSNews.com) - The Madison School Board Monday voted unanimously to hire a full-time advocate for homosexual and lesbian students in the school system.

Board members voted 7-0 in support of the position after hearing testimony from roughly 50 or so on both sides of the issue - including Sol-Kelley Jones, 14, the middle school daughter of Madison therapist Sunshine Jones and her partner JoAnn Kell.

"All the way through my elementary school years, the burden of constantly educating teachers and other school staff was on me and, of course, my parents," Jones told the board, adding the hiring of such a professional advocate will help. "Tonight we can go home with hope in our hearts."

But opponents of the move called the position a bad use of tax dollars and a means of facilitating people to engage in a particular lifestyle. "That's not healthy for heterosexual or homosexual teens," resident Margie Reffue testified.

The district will move immediately to hire an advocate, with the goal of having the person in place before the end of the 2000-2001 school year. According to the resolution, the administration is "encouraged to work closely with GLBTQ (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning) community in developing the job description."

Plans call for the homosexual advocate to be a teacher or guidance counselor who will be expected to "improve the academic achievement, emotional security, and personal acceptance," of students, while being a source of information about homosexuality for staff as well.

The vote makes Madison the ninth school district nationally to add such a position, according to information on the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network's Internet web site.

The proposal had become a heated topic in local media prior to Monday's vote, with people on both sides of the issue raising concerns.

Terrell Smith of Madison wrote in a letter to the editor of one Madison newspaper that the resolution goes "beyond tolerance and diversity to one of advocacy of a destructive lifestyle."

But homosexuality advocates cited the need to better understand children who are, or think they may be, homosexual.

"It is unconscionable for us as a community to be silent about this issue any longer, while countless youth are verbally or physically tormented, often to the brink of suicide," Drs. Paul Grossberg and Patricia Kokotailo of the pediatrics department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Medical School wrote in a guest newspaper editorial.

The board's vote came the night before a Madison appearance by Judy Shepard, whose homosexual son Mathew was murdered in 1998 in Wyoming. She was scheduled to speak on the University of Wisconsin campus Tuesday night.

The jilted lover
Monday, February 26, 2001

When Naitasiri farmer Chandrika Prasad woke up on December 14 last year he found his wife of six years missing. She had apparently left the 67-year-old farmer taking the $2500 cash that was kept in the house and their joint account bank book containing over $4000.

Yesterday Mr Prasad (f/n Puran Chaudhry), who is a relative of the Chandrika Prasad who made headlines for publicly challenging the abrogation of the 1997 Constitution made an impassioned plea for his wife's return. Mr Prasad believes his wife Shanti Devi (f/n Sukh Ram), 56 is somewhere in Sigatoka.

He is offering a $100 reward to anyone who gives him information which will lead to his wife's discovery. Mr Prasad said he has no idea why his wife left him, adding they had never had any serious disputes and had willed his entire property to her in the event of his death. "She's a good woman and I want her to come back," Mr Prasad said.

"Probably it's something she's afraid of," saying he also fell victim to vandals at the height of last year's civil unrest. What he cannot understand is why she stole the money which belonged to both of them. Mr Prasad produced a bank statement showing a $4750 withdrawal on the day of his wife's departure. She left only $283.59 in the account. Mr Prasad married Ms Devi, his second wife, in 1994.

Fiji's Daily Post

Suicide increase worries police
Tuesday, February 27, 2001

Police in the west are worried about the increase in the number of suicides and attempted suicides following attempts by two women to commit suicide recently. Divisional Police Commander Western Eroni Antonio said this had become the trend in the past couple of months.

"It's very disturbing," SSP Antonio said. In the first incident a 23-year-old garment factory worker drank kerosene after her husband complained about the way dinner was prepared. "The woman returned from work earlier than her husband. When he returned he was not pleased about dinner so she took the food back to the kitchen and drank kerosene," he said.

Her husband rushed her to the Lautoka Hospital where she is recovering. In another incident a 34-year-old Nadi woman is recovering in hospital after she consumed chemicals following a dispute over religion. The woman is a Hindu while her husband is a Muslim.

"She was supposed to attend a Hindu wedding but her mother did not approve of it so after having an argument she became upset and drank some chemicals," SSP Antonio said. Coordinator for the Women's Crisis Centre Shamima Ali said women go through a traumatic period when confronted with such situation. Ms Ali said there was a great deal of discussion over such issues at the 3rd Pacific Regional Meeting on Violence Against Women being held at the Warwick in Sigatoka.

"Fiji's political crisis has had a severe impact on women and children. "In Fiji's experience since the 1987 coup women and children are the most vulnerable and have been made easy targets of violence and abuse when such conflicts arise," she said.

Ms Ali said the loss of democracy has also seen the erosion of women's rights as reflected in the crimes against women, law enforcement, the judiciary and other support services. "The law enforcement and the justice system have let women down," she said.

Fiji's Daily Post

Methodist church denies Sotutu's signature
Tuesday, February 27, 2001

The Methodist Church denies supporting the Fiji's Blue committee agreement that condemns the abrogation of the 1997 constitution.

Citizens Constitutional Forum official, Reverend Akuila Yabaki claimed in his affidavit to the Court of Appeal last week that the Ministry of Reconciliation consultant Paula Sotutu had signed the agreement on behalf of the church.

Sotutu denied the allegations saying he was earlier instructed by the church president Reverend Tomasi Kanailagi not to sign the agreement but he signed to show he attended the meeting.

The agreement calls for return to democracy, condemning the May 19th events of last year and retaining the 1997 constitution.

Those who signed the agreement included employers, manufacturers, trade unions and non-governmental organisations. Kanailagi said that because the signature made by Sotutu implied that the Methodist church supported the agreement, he would talk to him (Sotutu) about it.

He added that signatures made by other church members does not represent the church but only for their own interests as decisions within the church have to be decided first by its committee.

Kanailagi stated that church's standing committtee will decide on what actions to take after a report will be made in a meeting with Sotutu and Yabaki.

Ready clarifies factories closure
Tuesday 27, febuary 2001.

The closure of the two garment factories in Lautoka were because of financial difficulties, says Fiji Trade Investment Manager, Muni Reddy. He says the two factories had some cash flow problems which caused them to lose some overseas markets.

"They exported their garments to Australia and after the May 19 crisis, Australia held back on some of their order which is why they suffered a reduction," he said. The companies could not meet their commitments because of the heavy cash flow problem they encountered," Mr Reddy said.

However, he disputed the statement made by Natwarlal Vagh, Fiji Chamber of Commerce president, who said the two factories were operating on a "fly by night" basis.

"This is absolutely not true because the two factories contributed to long hours of hard work, provided employment for the local people and other small businesses which benefited from them indirectly," Mr Reddy said. He said the closure of the two factories had nothing to do with low investor confidence and very little to do with the political upheaval.

Fiji's Daily Post

Fijian rights violated by interim govt: report
Tuesday, February 27, 2001

The United States Human Rights Report has highlighted several human rights violations in Fiji last year including those by the interim administration.

The report says human rights situation in Fiji was poor and condemned the Interim Government for its current policies that violate the rights of Fijian citizens.

Among violations listed in the report was ethnically based discrimination, press freedom and freedom of expression.

It sighted examples like the state having control of the Daily post and influence in the Fiji Sun newspapers.

Restricting public meetings to only certain groups was also emphasised.

Many other of the violations mentioned are said to have stemmed from the events following the ousting of the Chaudhry government in May last year.

The report highlights human rights violations in many countries, Fiji included.

Tenants harassed by landlords
Tuesday, February 27, 2001

Continuous harassment from their landlord has driven a family from their home outside Suva.

Mahendra Singh’s family who had been living in their home for 3 generations, faced the last straw when their landlord demanded one of their daughters to be handed over if the family could not pay a $1000 goodwill payment.

Reports show that other tenants of the landlord have left over similar reasons.

One of the landlord’s sons dismissed the claims by Singh and the tenants as a "joke".

Police spokesperson SSP Romanu Tikotikoca said police could not do anything until a complaint is filed with them.

Singh says that he did file a complaint as he did not see how the police could have helped in their situation.

Tuesday February 27 12:43 AM ET
Mobs Burn More Homes in Indonesia's Borneo

By Achmad Sukarsono

JAKARTA (Reuters) - Mobs of indigenous Dayaks torched more homes in Indonesia's Borneo on Tuesday as security forces made their first attempt to seize weapons and stop the slaughter of Madurese immigrants.

Screaming ``Long Live the Dayaks!,'' mobs swept through the outskirts of the Central Kalimantan capital Palangkaraya, witnesses said, burning homes abandoned by Madurese.

A military spokesman said special forces troops from the army's airborne unit would soon be sent into Borneo, although he gave no timeframe. The army's feared Kopassus special forces would not be dispatched, as some local media reported, he added.

The fresh violence around Palangkaraya came as security forces fanned out through the city, seizing spears and swords from Dayaks who are believed to be responsible for the deaths of several hundred people in nine days of ethnic savagery.

Witnesses said police seized hundreds of weapons in the first attempt to disarm the marauding Dayaks, who have forced more than 30,000 Madurese immigrants to flee the region.

``No-one is now allowed to bring weapons onto the streets. This operation will go on,'' Palangkaraya police chief J.A. Sumampouw said by telephone from the city, 530 miles northeast of Jakarta.

Hundreds of thousands of Madurese have settled in Borneo over the last few decades as part of an official government plan to ease crowding on heavily populated Java and Madura islands.

But the Madurese are resented for their relative affluence.

President Abdurrahman Wahid, on a two-week trip to the Middle East and Africa, said in a statement that two battalions of soldiers had been sent to the jungles of Central Kalimantan to search for any Madurese refugees who might be in hiding.

Officials plan to evacuate an estimated 10,000 Madurese remaining in Sampit, scene of some of the worst slaughter.

Thousands of refugees have fled south by ship to the city of Surabaya in Java since the violence began. Most carried just a few possessions and almost all had horrific tales to tell.

Wahid Says Will Not Return Early

The massacres have given Wahid's enemies fresh ammunition to attack the Muslim cleric, already under pressure following a parliamentary censure on February 1 over two graft scandals.

But Wahid said that despite demands he return to Indonesia, he would continue his trip because of assurances from chief security minister Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and the national police chief.

Vice President Megawati Sukarnoputri planned to visit the area soon, Yudhoyono said on Tuesday.

Highlighting Indonesia's myriad headaches, the State Department said on Monday that the country's human rights situation steadily worsened in 2000, mostly due to ethnic, social and religious strife in the country's most unstable provinces.

Despite Wahid's efforts to build on Indonesia's democratic transition of 1999, violence by security forces and separatist groups resulted in widespread human rights abuses, it said.

Officials in the town of Sampit said security there was now under control, although schools and many shops in Sampit and Palangkaraya were closed.

``Things are getting back to normal although basic needs are limited because many shops are still shut,'' Palangkaraya police spokeswoman Andi Selvy said by telephone.

West Kalimantan province, scene of sporadic massacres between the two groups, was also relatively calm, officials said.

Fresh Bodies Found

Adding to the picture of carnage, newspapers on Tuesday reported the discovery of 118 fresh corpses.

The Jakarta Post quoted police saying the bodies had been found dumped outside a local government office on Monday in Parenggean district, 62 miles from Sampit.

The newspaper said the dead were believed to be Madurese refugees fleeing Sampit for Palangkaraya, a four-hour drive away. The leading Kompas daily said the 118 were killed on Sunday.

Selvy said about 60 bodies had been found in Parenggean, although she was not sure when they were discovered. Another government official said only two bodies had been found there.

Jauhar Pauzni, a government spokesman in Sampit, said on Tuesday the confirmed death toll was still 270, although the official Antara news agency said up to 400 people had died.

In his statement from Cairo, Wahid put the toll at 191.

Three people arrested on suspicion of stirring up the violence have been flown to Jakarta for questioning, Antara said.

Yudhoyono has also said Jakarta would support the declaration of a civil emergency in the province if local officials deemed it necessary. Civil emergency is one step down from martial law.

Monday, February 26 5:34 PM SGT

Indonesian parliament speaker slams president for not scrapping trip

JAKARTA, Feb 26 (AFP) -

Indonesia's parliamentary speaker Akbar Tanjung on Monday hit out at President Abdurrahman Wahid for not cancelling his two week trip to the Middle East despite the carnage in Borneo, reports said.

The president should have stayed home and paid attention to the troubles in Borneo, Tanjung was reported as saying by the Satunet news service.

"But he headed off anyway, and now it's all left up to the vice president to take firm steps."

"He shouldn't just say everything's up to vice president Megawati (Sukarnoputri)."

Megawati meanwhile broke her silence over the week of beheadings and arson that has left hundreds dead in Borneo, to reject criticism of the government's weak response.

"The vice president is disappointed at several statements that the government has been clumsy in dealing with Sampit," head of the Association of Women Islamic Teachers, Tuti Alawiyah, said after meeting Megawati.

Megawati complained the government had worked hard to overcome the problems in Sampit, but they were impossible to solve in one hour, Alawiyah told reporters.

Hundreds of people, mainly settlers from Madura island in East Java, have been slaughtered in a week of vicious killings and arson by indigenous Dayaks that started in the river port of Sampit in Central Kalimantan province.

The vice president urged the people of Sampit to stop fighting and live together in peace again, Alawiyah said.

Megawati complained that her office faced an increasingly tough burden since the office of coordinating minister for social welfare and poverty eradication was closed as part of a cabinet revamp last year.

"So the vice president urges the community in Sampit and other areas to find peaceful ways to resolve the conflict in ways other than civil war," Alawiyah was quoted as saying by the state-run Antara news agency.

Tanjung suggested imposing a civil emergency in the province.

"If the situation there is already chaos, the government needs to consider enforcing a state of civil emergency," he said, adding that Wahid should be giving firm orders to the military, rather then letting the arson and violence continue.

Madurese fleeing the violence in Sampit have complained that police and soldiers stood by while Dayaks armed with spears, knives and axes ran riot and beheaded people.

Police were seen playing chess in Sampit while houses burned and corpses lay on the street meters (yards) away.

Chief security minister Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who flew to Borneo on Sunday, said in the provincial capital of Palangkaraya on Monday that the main priority of troops there was to protect the refugees.

"The point is that saving people's lives will be first and foremost in the coming days," Yudhoyono told reporters as a battalion of crack Strategic Command troops flew in to reinforce troops on the ground.

Sunday February 25 10:46 PM ET
Indonesia Fears Borneo Violence Could Spread

PALANGKARAYA, Indonesia (Reuters) - Indonesia's chief security minister Monday said the government was sending in extra troops to Borneo, worried that the ethnic bloodshed which has already killed up to 400 people there could spread.

Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono told a news conference in Palangkaraya, capital of Central Kalimantan province, that security in the worst hit town of Sampit had been restored.

``Sampit is under control now but there are indications that the problem may spread to more remote places which are difficult to reach. Because of that, we will deploy another additional battalion to strengthen the situation here,'' he said.

A battalion normally comprises 400 soldiers.

Indonesia has said it would also send in special forces to quell the unrest, which flared more than week ago when gangs of indigenous Dayaks began attacking Madurese immigrants. Yudhoyono did not refer to the plan to send in the special forces.

Monday, February 26 6:54 PM SGT

Madurese tells of grisly Borneo massacres

SURABAYA, Indonesia, Feb 26 (AFP) -

Masudi Muali said he ran as fast as he could after seeing many of his friends beheaded by indigeneous Dayak tribesmen outside his college in Sampit on the Indonesian part of Borneo island.

"I jumped into a river as they threw spears at me. I'm thankful to be alive," said the weary-looking Muali, 27.

Muali said he and 26 of his friends were dragged out of Sampit's Miftahul Ulum Islamic boarding school by the Dayaks, who were armed with traditional mandau swords and spears, and told to stand in line.

"They told us that if we didn't resist we wouldn't be killed," he said, speaking in Tanjung Perak port in the East Java city of Surabaya after disembarking from a refugee-packed ferry evacuating him him from Sampit.

But a few metres (yards) from the school, the Dayaks hacked his schoolmates to death one by one, and chopped their heads off, he said.

"Some of us managed to slip through their fingers and run off. I don't know if they were caught again," he said.

Muali is one of thousands of refugees who fled the savage attacks on settlers from Madura island by gangs of Dayaks in Sampit, a small industrial city in Central Kalimantan province.

A seven-year-old boy, who arrived in Surabaya with his mother, had fingers cut off both hands by the Dayaks.

Thousands of Madurese settlers are still sheltered at government offices in Sampit, scared and hungry, their numbers swollen by more than 10,000 new arrivals Monday as people filtered out of the jungles where they had been hiding.

When the first refugee-crammed navy landing craft arrived in Surabaya on Sunday, reporters there said many were crying "water, please give us water," from the decks.

Officials said 270 people have been confirmed killed in the massacres in and around Sampit, which involved decapitations and instances of cannibalism, according to local reporters.

Locals scoff at the official total, saying no one had yet counted the decomposing beheaded corpses in the streets of Sampit and the surrounding villages.

The Sampit violence has spread to nearby areas, including the provincial capital of Palangkaraya, 220 kilometres (137 miles) northeast, where armed Dayaks rampaged unchecked Monday.

In Palangkaraya though most Madurese had already fled, and the Dayaks, armed with swords and axes, looted, burned and vandalized houses and shops abandoned by their occupants.

They have vowed to rid the province of the Madurese.

Tension between Dayaks and settlers from Madura, an island off Java's eastern coast, has erupted several times in recent years.

Dayaks resent Madurese for their financial dominance.

Some 3,000 people were killed in months of clashes in West Kalimantan in 1999 when local Malays, supported by Dayak tribesmen, took on the Madurese.

In December Dayaks and Madurese fought for several days in an area some 100 kilometers to the west of Sampit, leaving four people dead.

Monday February 26 1:14 AM ET
Indonesia to Send Extra Troops to Borneo

By Beawiharta

PALANGKARAYA, Indonesia (Reuters) - Indonesia said on Monday that it would send extra soldiers to Borneo and its chief security minister expressed concern that ethnic violence there, which has already killed up to 400 people, could spread.

One report said that feared special forces could be sent as part of efforts to quell the violence which flared more than one week ago when indigenous Dayaks, once fearsome headhunters, began attacking Madurese immigrants.

Rampaging Dayaks have triggered a humanitarian crisis, forcing some 30,000 mainly Madurese to flee the town of Sampit in Central Kalimantan province, scene of most of the unrest.

A wounded Madurese man disembarks from a boat after arriving in the Indonesian port city Surabaya, February 26, 2001. Thousands of Madurese have fled their homes on Borneo after a week of ethnic violence which has left hundreds dead. (Reuters

Reporters in Sampit at the weekend said the military and police largely stood aside as the carnage spread there.

But on Monday, officials said security in Sampit had been restored. Palangkaraya, capital of Central Kalimantan and a four-hour drive away, was also relatively calm after Dayaks armed with swords and spears torched homes owned by Madurese overnight.

``Sampit is under control now but there are indications that the problem may spread to more remote places which are difficult to reach,'' chief security minister Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono told a news conference in Palangkaraya.

``Because of that, we will deploy another additional battalion to strengthen the situation here,'' he said.

A battalion normally comprises 400 soldiers.

The grisly massacres -- some victims were beheaded and their heads paraded through Sampit -- underscore the severe tensions tearing at Indonesia and the inability of a fractured leadership to drag the world's fourth most populous nation out of crisis.

Leaders Largely Silent

The country's leadership has been largely silent on the slaughter, the latest to hit the giant country which is still struggling to extricate itself from three years of chaos.

President Abdurrahman Wahid who is on a visit to Egypt, has said little about the killings. Vice President Megawati Sukarnoputri, in charge during the Muslim cleric's latest trip abroad, has said nothing publicly.

The Jakarta Post, quoting Wahid, reported on Monday that the special forces were needed to quell violence w

By Monday an estimated 10,000 Madurese remained in Sampit, 750 km (465 miles) northeast of Jakarta. Officials were planning to evacuate them this week.

In Palangkaraya, children headed to school and traffic clogged the streets although occasional sword-wielding Dayaks were seen riding around on motorbikes.

Residents said some Dayak roadblocks were still in place.

The Jakarta Post said Wahid wanted to send notorious troops of the army's Kopassus unit to Borneo where tens of thousands of Madurese settlers live and have previously been the focus of savage attacks by indigenous groups.

``The serious nature of the feud between the Madurese and the Dayak people make it necessary for us to send the special forces there,'' the newspaper quoted Wahid as saying.

But Jakarta-based military spokesman Air Vice Marshal Graito Usodo said no decision had been made yet on which unit would go.

``There is a thought to do that. It has not been decided which special unit and details cannot be revealed,'' he told Reuters.

The various branches of Indonesia's military have special forces, but Kopassus are a household name.

They are one of the toughest and best-equipped units in the military, and have been frequently accused of human rights abuses and of inciting some of the communal violence around the country that is undermining Wahid's shaky 16-month rule.

Horror Stories

Madurese refugees have begun arriving back in East Java on naval ships, bringing with them stories of anguish.

``Ten people from my village were butchered,'' one Madurese man, Ruki, told Reuters.

``We had a good life before all of this happened and now we are suffering. My house is destroyed.''

Local officials have put the confirmed death toll at 270 around Sampit, although the official Antara news agency said some 400 people had been killed based on information it had collected.

Dozens of people have been wounded.

Police have arrested about 80 people over the violence, including three alleged masterminds, official media has said.

Witnesses and officials say the Sampit violence began as fighting between the long-time rival groups but has shifted into one-sided Dayak attacks on Madurese.

The Kalimantan massacres have given the political enemies of Wahid, who left on a trip to the Middle East and Africa last week as the violence mounted, fresh ammunition to attack the cleric.

Some legislators have also demanded Wahid, whose two-week trip includes a lengthy pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, return home immediately to deal with the crisis.

1997 Constitution reaffirms Fiji's recognition of rights
Monday, February 26, 2001

FIJI cannot afford to ignore the development of international human rights norms unless it wishes to live in isolation, said the director of the Fiji Human Rights Commission, Dr Shaista Shameem. And, she says the 1997 Constitution reaffirms Fiji's recognition of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals and groups.

She was responding to queries - which were raised at the Fiji Court of Appeal last week in the case between the State and Chandrika Prasad - on whether human rights norms were applicable in Fiji. "The Preamble of the Constitution, in its final paragraph, reaffirms Fiji's recognition of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all individuals and groups, safeguarded by adherence to the rule of law and respect for human dignity and the importance of the family," she said.

According to her, the Fundamental Rights and Freedom Decree - decreed by the military government after the May 19 - which purports to replace the Bill of Rights in the Constitution waters down the right to equality and dignity significantly. Dr Shameem then quoted Section 17 (7) and Section 24 (6) of the decree as examples.

"Both these provisions undermine the right to be free from unfair discrimination and are of concern to the Fiji Human Rights Commission, whose legal mandate is to promote and protect human rights in Fiji. "The number of references to international human rights norm in the 1997 Constitution, particularly those dealing with interpretation, indicate that the constitution as the Supreme Law of Fiji recognised the importance of international principles of human rights to Fiji."

She said the courts have no option but to be guided by these principles in the interpretation not only of the Bill of Rights sections but of the other constitutional provisions as well. "It should be noted that the recognition of international human rights were similarly present in the 1970 Constitution, and to some extent in the 1990 constitution," Dr Shameem said.

"However, the 1997 Constitution is unique in that it requires the courts to be mindful of these norms when interpreting the constitution as a whole." "It is no longer possible to say that human rights standards are not applicable to Fiji. This is not true for any country in the region. Australia and New Zealand do not have a supreme Bill of Rights like Fiji, yet the principle of just rights have been incorporated into their jurisdiction in recent years."

Fiji's Daily Post

Pastor bars interracial marriage

Source: AP|Published: Tuesday July 11, 3:50 AM

COLUMBUS, Ohio: A southern Ohio pastor has refused to allow an interracial wedding in his church, forcing the couple to move the ceremony.

The marriage of Chastity Bumgardner and Henry Lawrence was scheduled for July 16 at the Pleasant Valley Community Church in Pike County, about 100 kilometres south of Columbus, by Bumgardner's brother, a newly ordained minister.

But the Reverend Donald Ellis confirmed to The Columbus Dispatch that he cancelled the ceremony after learning that Lawrence is black. The pastor refused to say why.

'This is my church,' Ellis said.

Bumgardner, 26, who grew up in Pike County but now lives in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, said her brother has found a small church in nearby Beaver for the ceremony and the wedding will happen this Saturday, as planned.

She said she was shocked at Ellis's decision.

'It's something I would expect in Alabama or Mississippi, but I never expected it to happen in Ohio,' she told the Dispatch.

She added that her fiance, a 39-year-old Alabama native she met while both were in the US Army, is 'real hurt by it'.

Pike County is about 98 per cent white, according to the 1990 US Census, which said there were 327 black county residents.