US Ambassador remarks on Fiji 2006 military coup [1]
Saturday, December 6, 2008 - 17:13. Updated on Thursday, July 30, 2015 - 14:24.
December 5 marks the second anniversary of the military overthrow of the Multi-party Government duly elected by the people of Fiji in the May 2006 General Election.
Rather than fulfilling a leadership role, Fiji has become increasingly isolated from the international community and its Pacific neighbors. Foreign assistance to vital sectors is in doubt and the economic outlook remains uncertain.
The United States Government has repeatedly condemned the military takeover and restated its call for the rapid restoration of a democratically elected government.
The interim government has had sufficient time to announce an election date and make the appropriate preparations.
The United States stands with the Pacific Islands Forum and other international partners calling for a timely return to democracy in Fiji in 2009.
On the second anniversary of the coup, we call on the Interim Administration to hold elections and return Fiji to democratic governance without further delay. USA Embassy, 05/12/08.