Monday, March 05, 2007

Governor-General issues statement on relations with Fiji

The Government of the Dominion of British West Florida expresses its solidarity with the Commonwealth of Nations, and the Governments of the United Stats, Australia and New Zealand in continuing to oppose the actions of the illegitimate regime of Frank Bainimarama in Fiji.

Bainimarama toppled elected Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase in a “bloodless coup” on December 5, 2006. His government has no legitimate authority, - his attempt to play the race card in these events is nothing more than a feeble attempt to misdirect the attention of the world from his own lawless actions.

The coup, Fiji's fourth in 20 years, drew international condemnation with Australia, New Zealand, Britain and the United States imposing economic, diplomatic and defence sanctions. It is obvious to the most casual of observers that the recent rhetoric from Bainimarama is an attempt to have the world forget why these sanctions were imposed, and then to have these sanctions removed.

The rightful government in Fiji must be restored, and those who participated in the Coup removed from all positions of power before normal relations can be restored. These are actions that can be taken only by the people of Fiji. The sanctions imposed in reaction to the coup should remain in place as long as the renegade regime clings to power by force.

Robert, Duke of Florida, Lord of St. George, GSB
Her Majesty's Governor-General in and for the
Dominion of British West Florida.

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