New Fijian PM, Cabinet Named

An ethnic-Fijian banking executive Laisenia Qarase is the new interim Prime Minister of Fiji after the military leadership named him and his cabinet today.

Military head Commodore Frank Bainimarama will share power with Mr. Qarase and will swear in the Prime Minister's cabinet tomorrow.

Commodore Bainimarama said the new government would take a role in creating Fiji’s new constitution, and "close the gaps" between the different Fijian peoples - revatalizing the economy.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for coup leader George Speight said the army's move could cause serious repercussions among native Fijians loyal to the rebels.

New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark has also expressed concern about the new administration, saying the New Zealand Government may not recognise a cabinet which does not include any ethnic Indians or women.

Commodore Bainimarama has said several ethnic Indians were invited to join the Government, but none accepted the invitation.

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