Adi Kuini, Five Other Chiefs Lose In Fiji Poll

By ANISH CHAND: September 5, 2001 Wansolwara Online

SUVA (Pasifik Nius): One of two deposed deputy prime ministers in the People's Coalition government, Adi Kuini Speed, today lost her Nadroga/Navosa Open seat in the Fiji general election.

The Fijian Association Party leader polled 2911 votes.

In a result that has shocked many, the high chief from the Nadroga/Navosa province, was defeated by army colonel and Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewanivanua (SDL) candidate Pio Wong who polled 7291 votes.

Adi Kuini Speed becomes the latest high chief to face defeat at the polls.

The following chiefs have so far lost the seats they were contesting:

Ratu Ovini Bokini - Tavua Open seat.
Ratu Kinijoji Maivalili - Cakaudrove West Fijian seat.
Ratu Inoke Kubuabola - Cakaudrove East Fijian seat.
Ratu Aisea Kotonivere - Macuata Fijian communal seat.
Ratu Totivi Bokini - Ba West Fijian communal seat.

Tally so far after 43 seats in the 71-seat Parliament have been declared:

Fiji Labour Party (FLP) 21 seats
Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua (SDL) 14
Conservative Alliance Matanitu Vanua (CAMV) 6
National Federation Party (NFP) 1
United General Party (UGP) 1

+++niuswire

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