WIRES:

Fiji Elections Urgent

Friday, 2 March 2001, 10:44 am
Press Release: New Zealand National Party

An election is urgently needed in Fiji after Fiji's Court of Appeal decision confirming the interim government is illegal, National's Defence spokesman Max Bradford said today.

"National would wish to see fresh elections called as soon as possible to elect a new representative government in Fiji, one of the options that was presented by the court.

"To recall the deposed government under the Premiership of Mr Chowdry would almost certainly lead to a renewal of tension and perhaps conflict in Fiji.

"While the country will need a Government of legitimacy, that can only be obtained by democratic elections for and by the people," Mr Bradford said.

Ends

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