Fiji fails to oust military head
By Malenie Judy,WNS Pacific Bureau Chief
SYDNEY - Fiji's government has failed to remove the country's outspoken military chief after his nominated replacement turned down the post. Lieutenant Colonel Meli Saubulinayau was asked to take over from the controversial Commodore Frank Bainimarama, according to local media. But an army spokesman said he turned down the offer, because he still supported Commodore Bainimarama. The military chief has been at odds with the government for months. He has even threatened to force PM Laisenia Qarase to resign if he goes ahead with a controversial bill offering amnesties to plotters of the 2000 coup.
Mr Qarase met President Ratu Josefa Iloilo early on Tuesday, in what analysts suggest was an effort to find a replacement for Mr Bainimarama - who is currently out of the country. But when Lt Colonel Meli Saubulinayau was told of the plan, he declined to take the office, saying he did not command the support of the military, according to Fijian media. "Bainimarama is still the commander and will remain as the commander," Land Force Commander Lt Col Pita Driti told the online news service Fijilive.com.
Mr Qarase met President Ratu Josefa Iloilo early on Tuesday, in what analysts suggest was an effort to find a replacement for Mr Bainimarama - who is currently out of the country. But when Lt Colonel Meli Saubulinayau was told of the plan, he declined to take the office, saying he did not command the support of the military, according to Fijian media. "Bainimarama is still the commander and will remain as the commander," Land Force Commander Lt Col Pita Driti told the online news service Fijilive.com.
Fiji's police commissioner has reportedly refused to release a shipment of ammunition to the military, until commanders assure them it will not be used against the government. Australia issued a new travel advisory for Fiji on Tuesday, warning citizens to avoid street demonstrations and rallies that could become catalysts for civil disorder. The US has also warned "to be aware that civil-military unrest in November is possible".
posted by wnsworld @ 12:55 PM
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