Fiji protesters in police custody released: Update 1.16pm

Fiji citizens in police custody over silent protest - Update 1.02pm

Suva, 6th September 2013 - Fourteen Fijians were arrested this morning in Suva, for a silent protest outside the President’s official residence. The group were protesting today’s signing into force of the Government’s constitution, which has been controversially pushed through, despite lack of transparency and lack of public participation. The arrested group includes young women, lesbian, gay and queer activists, former trade unionist, community leaders, mothers and grandmothers. Among the arrested were 6 staff members, and Deputy Board Chair of the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement.

“These Fiji citizens were arrested by police simply for exercising their human rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression,” said FWRM Executive Director, Virisila Buadromo.

“We are calling on the international community to send messages of solidarity to the Fijian protestors and bring attention our cause – don’t accept this unjust constitution.”

As of lunchtime, the group of 14 are currently in Police custody at the Central Intelligence Department (CID) headquarters of the Fiji Police, in Suva.

UPDATE: The Fourteen Fijians who were arrested this morning in Suva, for a silent protest outside the President’s official residence have just been released.

FWRM would like to thank the following lawyers for their assistance:

Munro Leys' Richard Naidu;
Siwatibau & Sloan's Mary Muir and Peter Katia;
Ravi Singh; and
Ramen Singh

ENDS

© Scoop Media