John Key MP
National Party Leader

5 December 2006

Fiji coup condemned

National Party Leader John Key has condemned the military coup underway in Fiji and welcomed initial steps by the New Zealand Government in response.

“We join with the Government in expressing our deep concern at what has happened in Fiji,” says Mr Key.

“This illegal action by the Fiji military commander, Commodore Bainimarama, with support from the President, is likely to have grave consequences for innocent and law-abiding Fijians.

“We support the New Zealand Government in its efforts to convey to Commodore Bainimarama that such illegal action does not come without a price.

“I welcome the initial moves announced today by the Prime Minister, and note she has indicated that more is to come.

“This is a time where, unfortunately, we need to take strong measures that send the clearest possible message that it is unacceptable to tamper with democratically-elected and constitutionally-mandated governments.

“It is a great shame that ordinary Fijians will pay the price for Commodore Bainimarama’s deplorable actions.

“It is sad and concerning that New Zealand is again faced with an outbreak of instability in one of our Pacific Island neighbours.

“The coup serves to reinforce the importance of the role New Zealand needs to play in the region in promoting greater stability.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media