The President Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara has removed Prime Minister
Mahendra Chaudhry and his government from power by suspended parliament for
six months.
In a press conference at Government house a short while ago, Ratu Mara said
he will appoint a new PM and a council of ministers on Monday. The new PM will
be chosen from the existing MPs.
On the constitution, Mara said it will be amended to fit in demands made by
coup leader George Speight. He said the dissolution of parliament should lead
to an early release of the hostages held by Speight.
"I am saddened at having to do this," said Mara, adding that "Fiji
will suffer when the rest of the world realises this is the course of action
I have taken."
Mara said he was particularly concerned about Australia, Fiji’s major trading
partner, and New Zealand.
"I have been warned we will be on the bottom of the pariah list of countries"
Mara said he would not bow to Speight’s demands for him to step down as
he has the support of the chiefs, the military, the police and the civil service.
"There are 400,000 Fijians. I believe I have the majority support."
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