New Zealand Should Take Stand Against Fiji's Commonwealth Games Participation

United New Zealand leader, Hon Peter Dunne, is calling on the Government and the Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association to speak out against Fiji's participation in the 2002 Commonwealth Games.

Mr Dunne says such a move would be consistent with the 'smart sanctions' the Government has applied against Fiji, especially in the sporting area.

"The Organising Committee for the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester is due to meet this week to discuss Fiji's possible participation in the next Commonwealth Games."

"Given the recent overthrow of democracy in Fiji, that country's participation in the Manchester Games would be an affront to other Commonwealth countries and quite contrary to the spirit of the Commonwealth."

"The Government has been very quick to speak out on whether Mark Todd should compete in the Sydney Olympics."

"Let it now show the same concern for the preservation of freedom and democracy and take a strong stand against Fiji's involvement in the Commonwealth Games until democratic government is restored in that country."

"I urge the Government and the New Zealand Commonwealth Games authorities to immediately make known their opposition to the Manchester Organising Committee," he says.

ENDS

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