Fiji Appeal Court Upholds Gates Judgement

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Media Release

Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer

1 March 2001

The Australian Government welcomes the decision of the Fiji Court of Appeal upholding the Gates Judgment and reaffirming the validity of the 1997 Constitution. The Government has repeatedly expressed Australia's very deep concern at the consolidation of undemocratic and unconstitutional rule in Fiji following the events of last May and has repeatedly called for the restoration of democratic rule at the earliest opportunity, under the 1997 Constitution.

The Australian Government is encouraged by the interim government's statement to the Court on 22 February that it will accept the decision of the court and use its best endeavours to promote a return to constitutional legality. We now look forward to a positive response from the interim government. If that response is as we hope, the Australian Government is willing to review the measures it has taken against Fiji and to provide all the assistance it can to help Fiji quickly back on the path to democracy.

At this crucial time for Fiji's future, I take this opportunity to urge all Fiji's leaders to respect the decision of the Court and the rule of law, and work together peacefully and with a strong will to restore the democratic and constitutional rule which has been denied to all Fiji citizens since the elected government of Fiji was taken hostage in Fiji's Parliament buildings on 19 May 2000. I will then be the first to welcome Fiji when it once again takes its place as an honoured and respected member of the international community.

Media inquiries: Matt Francis - Ministerial (02) 6277 7500 /
Julie McDonald - Departmental (02) 6261 1555

Media Release

Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer

1 March 2001

Fiji Appeal Court Upholds Gates Judgement

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