TV1 6pm News Headlines (First Segment)

Fiji Coup – Fiji Background - Coutts Jumps Yacht

FIJI COUP: Foreign Minister Phil Goff broke the news of a coup in Fiji where seven gun men took the Prime Minister and members of Cabinet hostage. Former Businessman George Speight has taken over the Government appointing a new Prime Minister and declaring civilian law was still upheld. There has been wide spread looting in the capital and the foreign Ministry has advised New Zealanders to travel to Fiji only if it is absolutely essential. Foreign Affairs Minister Phil Goff has condemned the coup of the democratically elected government.

FIJI BACKGROUND: Fiji had weathered two previous coups and was also declared a republic when Colonel Sitivini Rambuka took the country over with the army in 1987. The country was also kicked out of the commonwealth. Most recently the constitution was changed back to allow Indian more power in Government.

COUTTS JUMPS YACHT: Skipper Russell Coutts and Brad Brad Butterworth have quit Team NZ leaving to head a European syndicate. They have hit out at the current management saying they could not work in the current situation.

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