THE appointment of Laisenia Qarase as interim Prime Minister was
received with caution at his village in Vanuabalavu, Lau last night.
His daughter, Seini Qarase said from Mavana village last night, that
while they are happy, they're fully conscious of the fact that the
country is "facing abnormal times".
"I'm proud of my father and his achievements.
At the same time we are happy that the military council has
confidence in him and hopefully is able to contribute in some little
way to bringing about normalcy," Ms Qarase said.
His 90 year old mother, Fane Vika, was all tears and emotional when
told of the military council's decision.
At his Moti Street home in Suva last night, wife Leba Qarase was
quietly celebrating the appointment with her children, grand children
and close relatives.
While the yaqona flowed freely, Mr Qarase was busy organising
today's activities.
He declined to talk to journalists saying he is yet to be sworn in as
Prime Minister.
"I have nothing to say. However, I will be in a position to talk to
journalists later today after I am officially sworn in as the interim
Prime Minister," Mr Qarase said.
Soon after the announcement yesterday, police moved in to provide security
at Moti Street which was also a
surprise to Mrs Qarase.
The Merchant Bank of Fiji managing director was named by Head of State Commodore
Voreqe Bainimarama to
lead an 18 member cabinet as the military council moves to bring about normalcy.
Mr Qarase is aware of the mammoth task before him but with his excellent pedigree,
there's every hope the
Mavana man will achieve what is wanted out of his Cabinet.
Mr Bainimarama saidhanding over the interim administration to an all-civilian
cabinet is a step towards moving
the country towards democracy.
The army chief however, will continue to exercise all responsibilities as Head
of State.
He will be directly responsible for national security which will include:
- the safety and release of the 27 hostages still held by George Speight;
return of all weapons and ammunition by the rebel group;
granting of amnesty to Speight and his group who carried out the coup on May
19, but only after they
have fully complied with the release of the hostages and return of weapons;
and;
maintenance of law and order and ensuring the safety of all citizens and security
of their properties.
He said naming cabinet was not an easy task as they wanted all provinces represented.
Mr Bainimarama confirmed that their choice from Rewa and Lomaiviti declined
including the offer to two well
known Indo-Fijian personalities.
Mr Bainimarama said he has faith in the Prime Minister and members of his cabinet.
Fiji's Daily Post
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