Fiji Coup

I strongly condemn the Fiji military’s unconstitutional removal of the Government of Prime Minister Qarase.

This is a tragic day for Fiji and for the region. In overthrowing the democratically elected Government of Fiji, Commodore Bainimarama has shown his contempt for the constitution and for the rule of law, for the people of Fiji and Fiji’s traditional institutions, and for the weight of international opinion. His takeover of the government is completely unconstitutional and illegal, and cannot be justified on any grounds. His statements to the contrary are wrong. The Fiji economy, already affected by the military’s actions, will be badly damaged, and the people of Fiji will suffer even more.

The Fiji military commander and his supporters should be in no doubt that their coup will bring a prompt and sharp international reaction. It will have serious and adverse consequences for Fiji’s economy and standing in the international community.

We will be taking steps to prevent all travel to and through Australia by Commodore Bainimarama, his supporters and their families. We will also ban travel to and through Australia by anyone unwise enough to join an unconstitutional government. Defence cooperation with Fiji will be suspended. We are encouraging other countries to impose similar penalties. There are also likely to be international consequences for Fiji, including for Fiji’s standing and reputation as a contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, and its membership of the Commonwealth.

Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Ministers, meeting in Sydney on 1 December to discuss the crisis in Fiji, noted that “such an outcome would be a tragedy for Fiji and would have dire consequences for the international reputation of the region as a whole.”

My Department has advised Australians to reconsider their need to travel to Fiji at this time and for those in Suva who are concerned for their safety to consider departing. Australians should exercise extreme caution, restrict unnecessary movement around Suva and monitor the travel advice.

Australia, nonetheless, firmly expects those now in control in Fiji to ensure the safety and security of the civilian population and visitors to Fiji.

Media Inquiries: Mr Downer's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555