TV1 6pm News Headlines (First Segment)

Dempsey Explains- Dempsey’s Mandate - SA Soccer Riot - Fijian Military Accord With Rebels - Goff Reacts To The Fiji Coup

DEMPSEY EXPLAINS: A defiant Charlie Dempsey has told his story. His explanation of why he abstained in the vote which chose Germany over South Africa as the 2006 world cup soccer hosts. He refused to apologise for his decision saying he believed it was “in the best interests” for Oceania soccer. Dempsey also again talked of the “intolerable pressure” put on him at the end of the bidding process.

DEMPSEY’S MANDATE: Charlie Dempsey’s daughter says her father had a mandate to act on his own decision from six Oceania countries. But NZ soccer delegates would like to know who these six nations were. They said the conversation they had with Mr Dempsey they made it obvious they wanted him to act on their wishes and vote for South Africa. The South African delegate has also hit out at Mr Dempsey.

SA SOCCER RIOT: Meanwhile a riot at a South African soccer match caused the death of five fans. The match was further thrown into chaos after police used tear gas on the crowds. Four other fans are in hospital with injuries.

FIJIAN MILITARY ACCORD WITH REBELS:The Fijian Military has given in to coup leader George Speight’s demands after the signing of a peace accord which will free the 27 hostages by Thursday. The interim government the military has set up will also resign on Thursday.

GOFF REACTS TO THE FIJI COUP: New Zealand Foreign Minister Phil Goff is pessimistic about the most recent accord saying it will allow Speight influence into the selection of the new government. Fijian Indians in New Zealand are also doubtful whether the accord will end in the freeing of the hostages.

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