Laisenia Qarase
6th Prime Minister of Fiji
In office July 4, 2000 – March 14, 2001 March 16, 2001 - December 5, 2006
Preceded by	Ratu Tevita Momoedonu
Succeeded by	Ratu Tevita Momoedonu (2001) Jona Senilagakali (2006)
Born	February 4, 1941 Mavana, Vanuabalavu Island, Lau
Political party	Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua
Spouse	Leba Qarase

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Laisenia Qarase (born February 4, 1941) was Prime Minister of Fiji from 2000 to 2006. After the coup that led to the removal of Mahendra Chaudhry was quashed by the military, Qarase joined the Interim Military Government as a financial advisor on 9 June 2000, and was subsequently appointed Prime Minister on July 4. He subsequently won two parliamentary elections, but was deposed in a military coup on 5 December 2006. Laisenia Qarase, Prime Minister of Fiji File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Fiji received its independence in 1970. ... For the United States holiday, the Fourth of July, see Independence Day (United States). ... This article is about the year 2000. ... March 14 is the 73rd day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (74th in leap years) with 292 days remaining in the year. ... 2001 (MMI) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar. ... March 16 is the 75th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (76th in leap years). ... 2001 (MMI) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar. ... December 5 is the 339th day (340th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... Ratu Tatu Tevita Momoedonu has served as Prime Minister of Fiji twice - each time extremely briefly. ... Ratu Tatu Tevita Momoedonu has served as Prime Minister of Fiji twice - each time extremely briefly. ... Dr Jona Baravilala Senilagakali is a medical doctor who was installed as interim Prime Minister of Fiji by Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama in the military coup of December 5, 2006[1] Baravilala is considered by some to be the best known and respected medical practitioner , having previously been the president of... February 4 is the 35th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. ... For the movie, see 1941 (film). ... Vanua Balavu (IPA: []) is the second largest island in Fijis Lau archipelago (not counting the islands of the Moala Group), and the main island of the Northern Lau Group. ... The Lau Islands (also called the Lau Group, the Eastern Group, the Eastern Archipelago) of Fiji are situated in the southern Pacific Ocean, just east of the Koro Sea. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Image File history File links Current_event_marker. ... February 4 is the 35th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. ... For the movie, see 1941 (film). ... Fiji received its independence in 1970. ... This article is about the year 2000. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... The Fiji coup of 2000 was a complicated affair involving a civilian putsch by hardline Fijian nationalists against the elected government of Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry on 19 May 2000, the attempt by President Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara to assert executive authority on 27 May, and his own resignation, possibly... Mahendra Pal Chaudhry (born 9 February 1942) is the leader of the Fiji Labour Party and currently the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. ... June 9 is the 160th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (161st in leap years), with 205 days remaining. ... This article is about the year 2000. ... For the United States holiday, the Fourth of July, see Independence Day (United States). ... The Fijian coup détat of December 2006 occurred as a continuation of the pressure which had been building since the military unrest of the 2000 Fijian coup détat and 2005-2006 Fijian political crisis. ... December 5 is the 339th day (340th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ...

A native of Vanuabalavu Island in the Lau archipelago, he is one of many Lauans to have held top leadership positions in Fiji. Vanua Balavu (IPA: []) is the second largest island in Fijis Lau archipelago (not counting the islands of the Moala Group), and the main island of the Northern Lau Group. ... The Lau Islands (also called the Lau Group, the Eastern Group, the Eastern Archipelago) of Fiji are situated in the southern Pacific Ocean, just east of the Koro Sea. ...

Early Career

Following his education at Suva Boys Grammar School, Qarase went on to graduate from New Zealand's Auckland University with a degree in Commerce. He entered the banking profession and became managing director of the publicly owned Fiji Development Bank in 1983, a position he held for fifteen years. In 1998, he moved to the private sector and became head of the Fiji Merchant Bank. In 1999, Qarase received his first political office, when the Great Council of Chiefs nominated him to fill one of the 14 seats allocated to them in the 32-member Senate, where he soon gained a reputation as a vociferous opponent of Mahendra Chaudhry's government. The University of Auckland is New Zealands largest research-based university by student numbers. ... Commerce is the trading of something of economic value such as goods, services, information or money between two or more entities. ... For other uses, see Bank (disambiguation). ... 1983 (MCMLXXXIII) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... 1998 (MCMXCVIII) was a common year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar, and was designated the International Year of the Ocean. ... 1999 (MCMXCIX) was a common year starting on Friday, and was designated the International Year of Older Persons by the United Nations. ... The Great Council of Chiefs (Bose Levu Vakaturaga in Fijian) is a constitutional body in the Republic of the Fiji Islands. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... Mahendra Pal Chaudhry (born 9 February 1942) is the leader of the Fiji Labour Party and currently the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. ...

As Prime Minister of Fiji

Qarase was removed from power in a military coup on December 4, 2006, after many months of tensions between his government and the Military came to a head in late November. He had been Prime Minister since 2000, except for a period of two days (14-16 March 2001), when he temporarily vacated the office to meet a constitutional technicality; the Supreme Court of Fiji had ruled that his government was unconstitutional and that Mahendra Chaudhry remained the rightful Prime Minister. In a series of moves that legal experts have considered to be of doubtful constitutionality, Qarase resigned on March 14, in favour of Ratu Tevita Momoedonu (who had been a Minister in the Chaudhry Cabinet) so that Momoedonu could advise President Ratu Josefa Iloilo to dissolve the Parliament and call an early general election. As soon as this technicality had been attended to, Qarase resumed the Prime Ministership. He was subsequently confirmed in office when he led his newly formed Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua (SDL) to victory in the election held to restore democracy in 2001. As Prime Minister, Qarase proved popular with business leaders, who appreciated his steps to liberalise the economy and boost tourism, the main source of foreign exchange. The Fijian coup détat of December 2006 occurred as a continuation of the pressure which had been building since the military unrest of the 2000 Fijian coup détat and 2005-2006 Fijian political crisis. ... December 4th redirects here. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... This article is about the year 2000. ... March 14 is the 73rd day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (74th in leap years) with 292 days remaining in the year. ... March 16 is the 75th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (76th in leap years). ... 2001 (MMI) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Supreme Court of Fiji is one of three courts established by Chapter 9 of the Constitution, the others being the High Court and the Court of Appeal. ... Background The Constitution of the Republic of the Fiji Islands dates from 1997. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Tatu Tevita Momoedonu has served as Prime Minister of Fiji twice - each time extremely briefly. ... Fiji has the Westminster system - executive authority is vested nominally in a President, but exercised in practice by a Cabinet of Ministers, presided over by the Prime Minister. ... Fiji became a republic in 1987, when Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom formally abdicated as Queen of Fiji, following two military coups led by Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Josefa Iloilovatu Uluivuda, CF, MBE, (born December 29, 1920) has been the President of Fiji since 2000. ... Fijis Parliament is bicameral. ... Elections in Fiji gives information on election and election results in Fiji. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... The Constitution of Fiji was restored by a Supreme Court decision, following the failure of the Fiji coup of 2000. ... 2001 (MMI) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

Qarase narrowly won the parliamentary election held on 6-13 May 2006, with his party taking 36 of the 71 seats in the House of Representatives. Qarase retained his own constituency with some 93 percent of the vote, after an expected challenge from challenge from Adi Koila Nailatikau, his predecessor as Lau M.P. and daughter of former Prime Minister and President, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, did not eventuate. The Constitution of Fiji requires general elections for the House of Representatives to be held at least once every five years. ... May 6 is the 126th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (127th in leap years). ... May 13 is the 133rd day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (134th in leap years). ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... Overview The House of Representatives is the lower chamber of Fijis Parliament. ... Adi is a title used by Fijian women of chiefly rank, namely female members of chiefly clans. ... Adi Koila Mara Nailatikau Adi Koila Mara Nailatikau is a Fijian lawyer, who has served as a career diplomat and politician. ... The Right Honourable Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara GCMG KBE CF, (May 6, 1920 – April 18, 2004) is considered the founding father of the modern nation of Fiji. ...

Domestic policy

Qarase was known as a champion of the interests of indigenous Fijians. He rejected suggestions that he was a racist, however. Addressing Muslims celebrating Muhammad's birthday on 25 April 2005, he said that the concept of racism was "alien and abhorrent" to him. He argued, however, that to ignore racial issues would be "irresponsible and dangerous," because race was "a fact of life." He said that his government was working to build "an inclusive society, where the views of every community and group are taken into account." He summed up his vision for Fiji by saying, "My government's aim for Fiji is not to return to where we once were but to journey forward together to a place we have not yet been, a Fiji of lasting peace and harmony, where nobody is left behind or goes without." Indigenous Fijians are the major indigenous people of the Fiji Islands. ... A Muslim (Arabic: مسلم, Turkish: Müslüman, Persian and Urdu: مسلمان, Bosnian: Musliman) is an adherent of Islam. ... For other persons named Muhammad, see Muhammad (name). ... April 25 is the 115th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (116th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Manifestations Slavery · Racial profiling Hate speech · Hate crime Lynching · Gay bashing Genocide · Holocaust Ethnocide · Ethnic cleansing Pogrom · Race war Religious persecution Movements Discriminatory Aryanism · Neo-Nazism White/Black supremacy Hate groups · Kahanism Anti-discriminatory Abolitionism Womens/Universal suffrage Civil rights · Gay rights Childrens rights · Youth rights Policies Discriminatory...

On 22 May 2005, he blamed lack of genuine mutual respect and appreciation among Fiji's diverse religions and cultures for many of the divisions the country currently faces. May 22 is the 142nd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (143rd in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

In a speech on 25 May, Qarase affirmed his strong support for the chiefly system, saying that to weaken the chiefs would be to weaken the nation. "I believe that the chiefs of Fiji have relevance for all our citizens not just the Fijians, they still represent stability, order and continuity. ... If the chiefs were diminished, the entire nation would be weakened and be vulnerable," he said. May 25 is the 145th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (146th in leap years). ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ...

In a parliamentary debate on 3 June, Qarase set out his own interpretation of why indigenous Fijians wanted to keep the leadership of the country in their own hands. This attitude sprang from insecurity, which he considered understandable in view of what has happened to indigenous peoples elsewhere. He said that Indo-Fijians had not responded to indigenous initiatives to extend the hand of friendship of cooperation, and that until a higher level of interracial trust could be achieved, the insecurity felt by many ethnic Fijians would remain. Rightly or wrongly, Qarase said, those responsible for the overthrow of the Into-Fijian-led government in 2000 were responding to the Tagi in Taukei, or cry of the Fijian people. The government's controversial proposal to establish a Reconciliation and Unity Commission would give such people a chance to clear their consciences. June 3 is the 154th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (155th in leap years), with 211 days remaining. ... This article is about the year 2000. ... The Reconciliation and Unity Commission is a proposed government body to be set up if the Reconciliation, Tolerance, and Unity Bill, which was introduced into the Fijian Parliament on May 4, 2005, is passed. ...

On 7 July, Qarase told the people of Bua Province that he intended to prioritize legislation to codify and protect indigenous Fijian rights. He indicated that he would seek the support of other communities, too. He blamed the lack of legislation safeguarding their rights for the "dissatisfaction" which contributed, he said, to the military coup of 1987 and the civilian coup of 2000. July 7 is the 188th day of the year (189th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 177 days remaining. ... Bua is one of Fijis fourteen Provinces. ... Fiji is divided administratively into four divisions, which are further subdivided into fourteen provinces. ... Fiji Coups of 1987 refers to the 1987 overthrow of the government of Fiji by Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka, then third in command of the Royal Fiji Military Forces. ... 1987 (MCMLXXXVII) was a common year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the year 2000. ...

He denied being a racial chauvinist, however, insisting in an address to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association in Nadi on 29 August 2005 that while ethnic Fijians were unwilling to relinquish power, they were willing to share it. He considered that the practical reality of communal politics, however, would take many years to overcome. A greater degree of interracial trust, confidence, and assimilation was required to get away from the situation where democracy was merely a façade for ethnic politics. "It requires commitment, vision and will. Differences of ethnicity and multi-culturalism have to be managed and accommodated," Qarase said. "It is a difficult balancing act, which must take account of the interests of all communities." He added that there were about a dozen minority groups, in addition to the two principal races; they, too, must be assured of their rights. He defended his affirmative action policies, saying they were not discriminatory but "a temporary measure to correct ... imbalances" and close the economic gap between indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians. The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, previously known as the Empire Parliamentary Association, is an organization, of British origin, which works to support good governance, democracy and human rights. ... Sri Siva Subramaniya temple, a centre of worship for Fijis Hindu community and one of Nadis most visible landmarks. ... August 29 is the 241st day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (242nd in leap years), with 124 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Affirmative action (or positive discrimination) is a policy or a program whose stated goal is to redress past or present discrimination through active measures to ensure equal opportunity, generally concerning education, employment or seats in parliament and/or government. ...

Qarase told the Fiji Village news service on 31 August that he did not believe racism was a major problem in Fiji. There had been racial issues dividing the country in the past, he said, but they had been resolved. August 31 is the 243rd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (244th in leap years), with 122 days remaining. ...

On 4 September, Qarase reacted angrily to allegations made by Opposition Leader Mahendra Chaudhry that he and his party used hate speech to gain the support of the indigenous community. Qarase said that he did not condone hate speech, and claimed that Chaudhry himself was often guilty of using hate speech in his political campaigns. September 4 is the 247th day of the year (248th in leap years). ... The post of Leader of the Opposition is a political office common in countries that are part of the Commonwealth of Nations. ... Mahendra Pal Chaudhry (born 9 February 1942) is the leader of the Fiji Labour Party and currently the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. ... Hate speech is a controversial term for speech intended to degrade, intimidate, or incite violence or prejudicial action against a person or group of people based on their race, gender, age, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, moral or political views, etc. ...

Foreign policy

Qarase also took a strong stand against what he saw as foreign interference in Fiji's "domestic affairs." On 2 March 2005, he strongly reacted to a U.S. State Department report critical of racial discrimination in Fiji, and of the racial divide between Fiji's two main political parties. He rebuked the United States for interfering in Fiji's internal affairs. "Fiji can make a similar report on the US on all those issues. Our report would be far worse than the US state department's report on Fiji," he said. Then, on 13 April 2005, he rejected criticism from Australia and some other countries over the prosecution and imprisonment of two foreigners charged with committing homosexual acts, and said that other countries needed to respect Fiji's independence. March 2 is the 61st day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (62nd in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The United States Department of State, often referred to as the State Department, is the Cabinet-level foreign affairs agency of the United States government, equivalent to foreign ministries in other countries. ... A political party is a political organization subscribing to a certain ideology or formed around very special issues with the aim to participate in power, usually by participating in elections. ... April 13 is the 103rd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (104th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Homosexuality refers to sexual and romantic attraction between two individuals of the same sex. ...

He also spoke out on issues relating to poverty and economic development in third world nations, including Pacific Islands states. Addressing the 28th annual meeting of the Association of Development Financing Institution in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP) at the Sheraton Resort in Nadi on 13 May 2005, Qarase said that poverty was the "greatest challenge" for development banks. He lamented what he called the greed and consumerism of rich countries which, he said, had the greatest concentrations of wealth in history while nearly half of the world's population is classified as poor, with more than a billion people living on less than one dollar a day. He called this disparity "an insult to the very concept of social justice" and "a shameful mark on the civilization of the 21st century." He went on to say that "The shame is compounded by the failure of developed countries to commit enough of their wealth and resources to helping poor populations from developing countries." The Sheraton hotel brand is owned by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. ... Sri Siva Subramaniya temple, a centre of worship for Fijis Hindu community and one of Nadis most visible landmarks. ... May 13 is the 133rd day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (134th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

Qarase called for an international system to provide market access to exports from poor countries, to enable them to earn their own way in the world. He also condemned corruption, saying that it hindered investment, stunted economic growth, and led to rediced standards of living and to a fall in government revenues, and called it "a stain on the integrity of any nation."

Qarase was known as a staunch friend of Israel, a position he attributed to his strong Christian faith as well as to his partially Jewish ancestry. On his orders, all United Nations votes involving Israel must be referred to him personally for approval. His support for Israeli interests was not unconditional, however, and Senator James Ah Koy (a fundamentalist Christian) strongly rebuked him in Parliament for not standing for Israel strongly enough. The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are to facilitate co-operation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress and human rights issues. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... Senator James Ah Koy James Michael Ah Koy (born in Lautoka, 30 November 1936) is a Fijian businessman and politician of Chinese and Fijian descent. ... Fundamentalist Christianity, or Christian fundamentalism, is a movement that arose mainly within British and American Protestantism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by conservative evangelical Christians, who, in a reaction to modernism, actively affirmed a fundamental set of Christian beliefs: the inerrancy of the Bible, the virgin birth...

Qarase was critical of the World Trade Organization, saying that its policies were unfair to small countries like Fiji. "WTO is trying to impose equality of trade in an unequal world," he said at the 18th Fiji-Australia Business Forum in Sydney on 17 October 2005, "but for developing countries like Fiji there is no level playing field, just a slippery slope." He believed that it would be a long time before Fiji's economy could compete on equal terms with that of more developed nations. The World Trade Organization (WTO, French: , Spanish: ) is an international organization that establishes rules for international trade through consensus among its member states. ... The Sydney Opera House on Sydney Harbour Sydney (pronounced ) is the most populous city in Australia with a metropolitan area population of over 4. ... October 17 is the 290th day of the year (291st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

Political controversies

Qarase faced challenges on numerous fronts. Some of these challenges relate to his handling of the 2000 coup aftermath, others to the implementation of policy by his government. The Fiji coup of 2000 was a complicated affair involving a civilian putsch by hardline Fijian nationalists against the elected government of Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry on 19 May 2000, the attempt by President Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara to assert executive authority on 27 May, and his own resignation, possibly... The Constitution of Fiji, which had been abrogated by the Interim Military Government of Commodore Frank Bainimarama (who organized a counter-coup to neutralize the civilian coup détat instigated by George Speight in May 2000), was reinstated by the High Court on 15 November that year. ...

Constitutional controversies

Less than one percent of the Indo-Fijian population voted for his party in 2001, with a further 22 percent voting for the National Federation Party, which was loosely allied to his party. Subsequent byelections and local government elections showed that his support in the Indo-Fijian community increased, but only marginally. Almost 75 percent of Indo-Fijian voters supported Chaudhry's Fiji Labour Party, which Qarase refused to include in his Cabinet, despite its winning of 28 seats, more than three times the number stipulated by the Constitution for representation in a multi-party cabinet. On 18 July 2003, the Supreme Court ruled that the exclusion of the Labour Party was in breach of the Constitution, and demanded that the situation be rectified. Subsequent appeals, counter-appeals, and negotiations stalled the appointment of Labour Party ministers, however. In June 2004, the Supreme Court ruled that the Labour Party was entitled to 14 out of 30 cabinet posts. Qarase announced that he would respect the ruling and implement it. His refusal to include Chaudhry himself in any cabinet, however, continued to stall the ensuing negotiations about the composition of the cabinet, until the Labour Party announce late in 2004 that it was no longer interested in joining the cabinet. Indo-Fijians are people born in Fiji, but are ethnically Indian. ... Politics of Fiji Categories: Stub | Fijian political parties | Fiji-related stubs ... The Fiji Labour Party is a political party in Fiji. ... Fiji has the Westminster system - executive authority is vested nominally in a President, but exercised in practice by a Cabinet of Ministers, presided over by the Prime Minister. ... July 18 is the 199th day (200th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian Calendar, with 166 days remaining. ... 2003 (MMIII) was a common year starting on Wednesday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Supreme Court of Fiji is one of three courts established by Chapter 9 of the Constitution, the others being the High Court and the Court of Appeal. ... 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

Several times throughout 2005, Qarase called for amendments to change the constitutional requirement for a multi-party Cabinet to a multi-ethnic one. This, he told the Fiji Village news service on 23 December, would guarantee equitable representation to all ethnic communities without requiring the government to compromise with ideologically opposite parties. 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Fiji Village is an online news service in Fiji. ... December 23 is the 357th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (358th in leap years). ...

Qarase also faced criticism for comments made at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association in Nadi on 29 August. He said that while Fiji "accepted" western-style democracy, it was an alien concept and certain aspects of it clashed with Fijian traditions. "The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, vesting every individual with equal rights, was directly opposed to the hierarchical social structure of indigenous Fijian society. Chiefs were at the apex by virtue of their birth and rank. The rest of the people had a communal functional role in this hierarchy," Qarase told the workshop. National Alliance Party leader Ratu Epeli Ganilau, the son of Fiji's first President and the scion of a high-ranked chiefly family, ridiculed Qarase's speech, saying that Fiji's political and judicial institutions were firmly rooted in western democracy. He said that the Fijian people should not be "misled" by the Prime Minister's claims that democracy was alien to Fiji. "Mr Qarase should answer whether he wants the western system of governance which allows him to be Prime Minister, or the Fijian tradition which requires the chiefs to rule by virtue of their birthright and rank. Otherwise, he is just being hypocritical to save face," Ganilau said on 4 September. The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, previously known as the Empire Parliamentary Association, is an organization, of British origin, which works to support good governance, democracy and human rights. ... Sri Siva Subramaniya temple, a centre of worship for Fijis Hindu community and one of Nadis most visible landmarks. ... August 29 is the 241st day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (242nd in leap years), with 124 days remaining. ... As a multiracial and multicultural nation, Fijis culture is a rich mosaic of indigenous, Indian, and European traditions. ... The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (also UDHR) is a declaration adopted by the United Nations General Assembly (A/RES/217, December 10, 1948), outlining a view on basic human rights. ... The National Alliance Party of Fiji (NAP) is a Fijian political party. ... Ratu Epeli Ganilau Brigadier-General Ratu Epeli Ganilau, MC, MSD, (born 10 October 1951) is a Fijian soldier and statesman, who currently heads the National Alliance Party of Fiji. ... Ratu Sir Penaia Kanatabatu Ganilau GCMG KCVO KBE DSO (28 July 1918-15 December 1993) was the first President of Fiji, serving from 8 December 1987 till his death. ... September 4 is the 247th day of the year (248th in leap years). ...

Coup-related controversies

Another challenge for Qarase was the conviction of persons responsible for their part in the 2000 coup. On 6 August 2004, Vice-President Ratu Jope Seniloli, and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure, were found guilty of treason and were given prison sentences of four and six years, respectively. Both are stalwarts of the Conservative Alliance, a coalition partner in Qarase's government. Anxious not to lose the six votes of that party, on which he relied for his parliamentary majority, Qarase declared that he was "dismayed by the severity of the sentences" that had been handed down. His government indicated, however, that it would not interfere with the process of law. On 29 November 2004, however, Attorney General Qoriniasi Bale announced that the government had decided to parole Seniloli on health grounds, in return for his resignation. August 6 is the 218th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (219th in leap years), with 147 days remaining. ... 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Fijian vice-presidency is a mostly ceremonial office. ... Ratu Jope Seniloli Ratu Jope Naucabalavu Seniloli (born 1939) was the Vice-President of Fiji from 25 March 2001 to 29 November 2004, when he was forced to resign following his conviction for treason on August 6, 2004, and the rejection of his appeal early in November. ... Overview The House of Representatives is the lower chamber of Fijis Parliament. ... Ratu Rakuita Saurara Vakalalabure (born 1962) is a Fijian lawyer and politician. ... The Conservative Alliance (Matanitu Vanua in Fijian) is a nationalistic political party in Fiji. ... November 29 is the 333rd (in leap years the 334th) day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. ... 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Fijis chief governmental legal officer is the Attorney General. ... Qoriniasi Bale, Attorney-General of Fiji Qoriniasi Babitu Bale is a lawyer and political leader, who is currently Fijis Minister for Justice and Attorney-General, offices he has held on two separate occasions. ... Parole can have different meanings depending on the context. ...

A similar scenario unfolded in the trial of Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, and Senator Ratu Josefa Dimuri. On 3 April 2005, Lalabalavu and Dimuri were convicted of unlawful assembly for their role aiding and abetting the 2000 coup by visiting rebels at the Sukanaivalu Barracks on 4 July that year, and were sentenced to eight months' imprisonment. Lalabalavu subsequently resigned his ministerial portfolio. Both were released on parole after serving just eleven days of their sentences. Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu is a Fijian high chief and politician, who was the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources in the Cabinet of Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, prior to his resignation on 7 April 2005. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... Ratu Josefa Dimuri Ratu Josefa Dimuri is a Fijian chief and politician, who has been a Senator since 2001. ... April 3 is the 93rd day of the year (94th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar, with 272 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Unlawful assembly is a legal term to describe a group of people with the mutual intent of deliberate disturbance of the peace. ... For the United States holiday, the Fourth of July, see Independence Day (United States). ... Parole can have different meanings depending on the context. ...

Opposition politicians charged that the release of Seniloli, Lalabalavu, and Dimuri was for political reasons, as the six votes of the Conservative Alliance are needed to maintain the government's parliamentary majority.

Also in May 2005, the Qarase government introduced controversial parliamentary legislation to establish a Reconciliation and Unity Commission with powers, subject to presidential approval, to compensate victims and pardon perpetrators of the 2000 coup. The proposal has generated a storm of protests from opposition politicians, many of whom were victims of the coup, as well as from the military. Even Ratu Ovini Bokini, Chairman of the Great Council of Chiefs, expressed concern on 18 May that the Great Council had not been consulted and was "in the dark" about the bill. Ratu Bokini's comments drew an immediate response from Qarase, who said that he saw no need for prior consultation with anybody. "Any Bill is drafted without consulting any party or stakeholders is because it contains what the Government wants to be included in the Bill," he said. At the annual conference of his Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua on 27 May, Qarase strongly defended the proposal, saying he believed it was essential for Fiji to bring closure to the agony of the past in order to move on. "We cannot bring the people together and concentrate all our energies on developing the country when the agony of 2000 is continuously haunting us," he said. 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Reconciliation and Unity Commission is a proposed government body to be set up if the Reconciliation, Tolerance, and Unity Bill, which was introduced into the Fijian Parliament on May 4, 2005, is passed. ... Fiji became a republic in 1987, when Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom formally abdicated as Queen of Fiji, following two military coups led by Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka. ... This article is about the year 2000. ... The Fiji coup of 2000 was a complicated affair involving a civilian putsch by hardline Fijian nationalists against the elected government of Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry on 19 May 2000, the attempt by President Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara to assert executive authority on 27 May, and his own resignation, possibly... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Ovini Bokini is a Fijian statesman. ... The Great Council of Chiefs The Great Council of Chiefs (Bose Levu Vakaturaga in Fijian) is a formal assembly of Fijis senior hereditary chiefs, along with some representatives of the national government and provincial councils, who may or may not be hereditary chiefs themselves. ... The Great Council of Chiefs (Bose Levu Vakaturaga in Fijian) is a constitutional body in the Republic of the Fiji Islands. ... May 18 is the 138th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (139th in leap years). ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... May 27 is the 147th day (148th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar, with 218 days remaining. ...

On 24 June 2005, former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry called on Qarase to resign in the wake of what Chaudhry called "very serious allegations" made against him by Roman Catholic Archbishop Petero Mataca, who had publicly accused the Prime Minister of misleading a delegation of church leaders on May 2 about what the Reconciliation and Unity legislation contained. According to the Archbishop, the leaders, who represented a variety of denominations, had given their support to the bill after the Prime Minister had told them about its reconciliation and compensation provisions. Only later had they heard, through the media, that it provided for amnesty to be granted to persons convicted of crimes related to the 2000 coup, which Mataca said was unacceptable. June 24 is the 175th day of the year (176th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 190 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Mahendra Pal Chaudhry (born 9 February 1942) is the leader of the Fiji Labour Party and currently the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. ... The Roman Catholic Church or Catholic Church (see terminology below) is the Christian Church in full communion with the Bishop of Rome, currently Pope Benedict XVI. It traces its origins to the original Christian community founded by Jesus Christ and led by the Twelve Apostles, in particular Saint Peter. ... In Christianity, an archbishop is an elevated bishop. ... Archbishop Petero Mataca Petero Mataca (born at Cawaci, on Ovalau Island, 28 April 1933) is the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Suva, Fiji. ... May 2 is the 122nd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (123rd in leap years). ... This article is about the year 2000. ...

On 29 May 2005, former Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka accused Qarase of hypocrisy. Rabuka said that a number of groups had split from the Fijian Political Party, which Rabuka had led in the 1990s and which was then the only mainstream Fijian party, and it was this that had given rise to the current political disunity among indigenous Fijians. Qarase's calls for unity now were hypocritical, Rabuka said, as the Prime Minister's own Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua was one of the factions responsible for the fragmentation of the indigenous vote. May 29 is the 149th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (150th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Major-General Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka, OBE, MSD, OStJ, (born September 13, 1948) is best known as the instigator of two military coups that shook Fiji in 1987. ... The Fijian Political Party (better known by its initials SVT, which stand for its Fijan name, Soqosoqo ni Vakavulewa ni Taukei) is a party which dominated politics in the 1990s and was the mainstay of coalition governments from 1992 to 1999, but which is currently without representation in the House... For the band, see 1990s (band). ... Indigenous Fijians are the major indigenous people of the Fiji Islands. ...

On 28 August 2005, Qarase said he was shocked by allegations that he had been a party to a plot to depose President Ratu Josefa Iloilo from office in 2000, barely a week after his inauguration. He said he had indeed attended a meeting at the Fijian Holdings boardroom, where Military Commander Commodore Frank Bainimarama said a group of six politicians, including nationalist Senator Apisai Tora, had asked him to remove the President, but denied that the topic had ever been raised. "I have never been part of any discussions to oust the president, I am a very peaceful person and to suggest that I was part of any discussions is unbelievable," Qarase said. Police Commissioner Andrew Hughes said on 2 September that they were hoping to interview Qarase. August 28 is the 240th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (241st in leap years), with 125 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Fiji became a republic in 1987, when Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom formally abdicated as Queen of Fiji, following two military coups led by Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka. ... Ratu Josefa Iloilovatu Uluivuda, CF, MBE, (born December 29, 1920) has been the President of Fiji since 2000. ... This article is about the year 2000. ... Commodore is a military rank used in some navies for officers whose position exceeds that of a Captain, but is less than that of a Flag Officer. ... Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama Commodore Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama MSD, OStJ, Fijian Navy, popularly known as Frank Bainimarama, (born 27 April 1954) is the Commander of the Fijian Military Forces. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... Senator Apisai Tora Apisai Tora, sometimes known as Mohammad Tora, is a Fijian politician and former trade unionist. ... The Fijian Commissioner of Police title has been held by Australian police officer Andrew Hughes since 2003. ... Andrew Hughes is an Australian police officer who currently serves as Fijis Commissioner of Police, an office he has held since 2001. ... September 2 is the 245th day of the year (246th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ...

Financing allegations

In December 2005, Qarase and Opposition politicians traded mutual accusations of misuse of public funds and abuse of office, and on 8 December, Chaudhry announced his decision to sue the Prime Minister, and Fiji Television, for defamation. December 2005 : January - February - March - April - May - June - July - August - September - October - November - December- → 31 December 2005 (Saturday) 25-year-old Scottish human rights worker Kate Burton and her parents are freed unharmed in the Gaza Strip by the Palestinian gunmen who kidnapped them two days earlier. ... December 8 is the 342nd day (343rd in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... It has been suggested that civil trial be merged into this article or section. ... Fiji Television Limited is Fijis television network. ... In English and American law, and systems based on them, libel and slander are two forms of defamation (or defamation of character), which is the tort or delict of making a false statement of fact that injures someones reputation. ...

On 5 December, lawyer Rajendra Chaudhry, acting for his father, Opposition Leader Mahendra Chaudhry, gave Qarase a three-day ultimatum to apologize for what he said were defamatory allegations, that Chaudhry had attempted to collect a commission on an F$86 million dollar loan from the Indian government for the reform of Fiji's sugar industry, or else face a lawsuit. Qarase refused to apologize, and when the three-day deadline set by Chaudhry expired, he announced on 8 December that he would be suing Qarase as an individual, not as Prime Minister, meaning that Qarase would be unable to use state funds to fight his case. The writ, which named Qarase the first defendant, also named Fiji Television as the second defendant. "Qarase has been reluctant to furnish evidence to substantiate his claims ... The imputations are very serious and a direct question on my integrity and leadership. As such I have had the resort to legal action," Chaudhry declared. December 5 is the 339th day (340th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Rajendra Chaudhry, shown with his father, former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, on the day of his admission to the bar, 30 September 2005 Rajendra Chaudhry is an Indo-Fijian lawyer, former civil servant, and potential parliamentary candidate. ... The post of Leader of the Opposition is a political office common in countries that are part of the Commonwealth of Nations. ... Mahendra Pal Chaudhry (born 9 February 1942) is the leader of the Fiji Labour Party and currently the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament. ... ISO 4217 Code FJD User(s) Fiji Inflation 1. ... Magnification of typical sugar showing monoclinic hemihedral crystalline structure. ... It has been suggested that civil trial be merged into this article or section. ... December 8 is the 342nd day (343rd in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... In law, a writ is a formal written order issued by a body with administrative or judicial jurisdiction. ... Fiji Television Limited is Fijis television network. ...

At a press conference on 9 December, the Prime Minister revealed a confidential letter from Mahendra Chaudhry, written on National Farmers Union (NFU) letterhead in his capacity as General Secretary of the Union, to Charles Walker, chairman of the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC), in September 2003. The letter proposed that the NFU purchase shares in the FSC, and stated that he, FLP Senator Anand Singh, and United Consultancy of Auckland, New Zealand, were in talks with "an India-based milling company" to restructure the FSC. According to the Prime Minister, the deal would have transferred shares, that the government was considering selling, not to cane farmers but to their trade union representatives. "The benefit was only to the NFU," Qarase said. Qarase called for an audit of the office of the Leader of the Opposition, saying that it would prove his connections to the Indian company. Equipment in Chaudhry's office had been used to communicate with the company since 2002, he alleged. December 9 is the 343rd day (344th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... There are several National Farmers Unions National Farmers Union in the United States National Farmers Union in the United Kingdom National Farmers Union in Canada This is a disambiguation page — a navigational aid which lists other pages that might otherwise share the same title. ... Charles D. Walker MDC Payload Specialist Personal data Born in Bedford, Indiana, August 29, 1948. ... 2003 : January - February - March - April - May - June - July - August - September - October - November - December A timeline of events in the news for September, 2003. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... Senator Anand Singh Anand Kumar Singh is a Fijian lawyer and politician of Indian descent. ... Schematic map of Auckland. ... An audit is an evaluation of an organization, system, process, project or product. ... For album titles with the same name, see 2002 (album). ...

Chaudhry derided the revelations as "laughable," and said that they showed no connection whatsoever between himself and India's Exim Bank, or with the Indian government loan. Nor did it substantiate, he said, Qarase's claims that he had sought a commission from the Indian companies. He filed an application in the High Court for a gag order to prevent the Prime Minister from making media statements until his lawsuit was heard, but Justice Anthony Gates dismissed the application on 14 December. Whether the Prime Minister's statements were defamatory was an issue that would have to be resolved in the trial itself, Gates ruled; in the meantime, the court would not interfere with constitutional guarantees of freedom of speech. Chaudhry was ordered to pay F$750 to Qarase and Fiji Television Limited to cover court costs. 9 January 2006 has been set for the hearing of the defamation case. The High Court of Fiji is independent of the legislative and executive branches of the acting government. ... Anthony Harold Cumberland Thomas Gates is an expatriate judge serving the Fijian Judiciary. ... December 14 is the 348th day of the year (349th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar. ... This article or section does not cite its references or sources. ... ISO 4217 Code FJD User(s) Fiji Inflation 1. ... January 9 is the 9th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ...

The same week, the Prime Minister found himself fending off allegations made by an Opposition parliamentarian, that he owned a property in Forster Street, funded by certain business leaders, and that he had received a double housing allowance while leading the Interim Government in 2000 and 2001. His private motor vehicle had also been purchased with the help of certain businessmen, the parliamentarian claimed. In reply, Qarase said that he did not know where Forster Street was. He owned only one property, in Mavana Village on the island of Vanuabalavu. He had never received the double housing allowance, he insisted, and could not afford to buy another property. He was still repaying a loan from the Merchants Bank for his private car, he said. This article is about the year 2000. ... 2001 (MMI) was a common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Vanua Balavu (IPA: []) is the second largest island in Fijis Lau archipelago (not counting the islands of the Moala Group), and the main island of the Northern Lau Group. ...

The Prime Minister also had to deny allegations made under parliamentary privilege by Senators Ponipate Lesavua and Ratu Dr. Epeli Nailatikau, and by prominent Opposition parliamentarian Poseci Bune, that two companies, one allegedly owned by his son Laisenia Qarase, Jr. and the other by Jale Baba, the General Secretary of Qarase's SDL Party, had benefited from government contracts. An angry Qarase challenged his opponents to repeat their allegations outside Parliament. Parliamentary privilege, also known as absolute privilege, is a legal mechanism employed within the legislative bodies of countries whose constitutions are based on the Westminster system. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... Ponipate Lesavua Ponipate Tawase Lesavua is a Fijian Senator and a member of the Fiji Labour Party. ... Note: This article is about Epeli Nailatikau, the Fijian medical doctor and Senator. ... Poseci Bune is a Fijian politician, who is currently (2005) the Deputy Leader of the opposition Fiji Labour Party (FLP). ... Laisenia Qarase, Jr. ... Jale Baba, with his wife Penelope (Penny) Baba. ...

Honours

On 30 October 2005, Qarase was awarded the Star of Melanesia by Papua New Guinea's Governor-General of Papua New Guinea, Sir Paulias Matane. The award was given in recognition of his contribution to business and commerce, as well as his efforts to bring political stability to Fiji and to promote the interests of Melanesian peoples throughout the Pacific region. Honoured with Qarase were his Solomon Islands and Vanuatu counterparts, Sir Allan Kemakeza and Ham Lini Vanuaroroa, respectively. October 30 is the 303rd day of the year (304th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 62 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Governor-General of Papua New Guinea is the representative of Queen Elizabeth II, known in Tok Pisin as Missis Kwin, Papua New Guineas head of state, performing the same duties as the Queen in the United Kingdom. ... Sir Paulias Matane (born 1931) is the governor-general of Papua New Guinea since June 29, 2004. ... Sir Allan Kemakeza (born 1951) is the current Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands. ... Ham Lini (born 1951?) is a politician in Vanuatu, who currently serves as Prime Minister of that country (since December 11, 2004). ...

Personal views

Qarase is known as a devout and outspoken Christian. Addressing the Christian Youth Conference in Suva on 15 May 2005, he called on young Christians to put their faith into practice, and not to be intimidated by peers who might consider a strong religious commitment to be unfashionable. He also called on Christian young people to do what they could to stop the spread of AIDS, which he said "poses a terrible threat to the world." Suva is the capital of Fiji. ... May 15 is the 135th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (136th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the syndrome. ...

The Prime Minister took a public stand on 24 January 2006 to support controversial American evangelist and faith healer Benny Hinn, who was conducting a crusade in Fiji. Despite reports of disillusionment by some people who were not healed, many thousands had been, Qarase told the Fiji Sun, and at any rate, the healings were "only a small part" of Hinn's message. January 24 is the 24th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... Evangelism is the proclaiming of the Christian Gospel. ... Faith healing is the use of solely spiritual means in treating disease, which, in some cases, is accompanied with the refusal of modern medical techniques. ... Benny Hinn Tofik Benedictus Benny Hinn (born December 3, 1952) is a televangelist, best known for his regular Miracle Crusades – revival meeting/faith healing summits that are usually held in large stadiums in major cities. ... The Fiji Sun is a daily newspaper published in Fiji. ...

He also took a strong stand against the legalisation of homosexuality. Reacting on 29 August 2005 to a decision of High Court Justice Gerald Winter to free a Fijian citizen and an Australian who had been convicted of sodomy, on the grounds that it was illegal only if committed in a public place, Qarase said he was of the opinion that any law which conflicted with God's laws should be amended, and he would study ways to ensure that homosexual acts remained illegal. Qarase's statement brought a strong reaction from United Peoples Party leader Mick Beddoes, who said that homosexuals were human beings and entitled to the full protection of the law. Homosexuality refers to sexual and romantic attraction between two individuals of the same sex. ... August 29 is the 241st day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (242nd in leap years), with 124 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The High Court of Fiji is independent of the legislative and executive branches of the acting government. ... François Elluin, Sodomites provoking the wrath of God, from Le pot pourri de Loth (1781). ... The United Peoples Party is a political party in Fiji, whose support base lies chiefly among General Electors - Fiji Islanders who belong to ethnic minorities, such as Europeans, Chinese, Banaban Islanders, as well as multiracial people. ... Mick Beddoes Millis Malcome Beddoes, widely known as Mick Beddoes, is a Fijian politician, who has led the United Peoples Party (formerly the United General Party) since 2001. ...

2006 coup

Main article: 2006 Fijian coup d'état

On the occasion of his 65th birthday on 4 February 2006, Qarase stated that if re-elected in the election that was duly held on 6-13 May, it would very likely be his last term in office. He won reelection, but continuing disagreements between his government and the powerful Republic of Fiji Military Forces culminated in a military coup on 5 December. Fiji Village reported the next day that he had been flown to his home island of Vanuabalavu by the Military, while Radio New Zealand claimed that he had fled there. He told Radio New Zealand that he was "down but not out"; he intended to fight on, and called for a peaceful popular uprising. The BBC reported that after being warned by Commodore Bainimarama not to "incite violence", Prime Minister Qarase planned to return to Suva, from which he was banished, but was warned that he faced arrest if he returns [1]. The Fijian coup détat of December 2006 occurred as a continuation of the pressure which had been building since the military unrest of the 2000 Fijian coup détat and 2005-2006 Fijian political crisis. ... February 4 is the 35th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... May 6 is the 126th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (127th in leap years). ... May 13 is the 133rd day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (134th in leap years). ... The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), with a total manpower of only 3500 men, is one of the smallest in the world. ... The Fijian coup détat of December 2006 occurred as a continuation of the pressure which had been building since the military unrest of the 2000 Fijian coup détat and 2005-2006 Fijian political crisis. ... December 5 is the 339th day (340th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... The Fiji Village is an online news service in Fiji. ... December 6 is the 340th day (341st on leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... Radio New Zealand Limited is New Zealands public service radio broadcaster. ... Radio New Zealand Limited is New Zealands public service radio broadcaster. ...

From Vanuabalavu, he remained outspoken in condemning the military takeover, comparing the new regime to those of Saddam Hussein, Adolf Hitler, and Idi Amin, [2] [3] in an interview quoted in the Fiji Times and Fiji Village on 13 and 14 December 2006. Saddam Hussein Abd al-Majid al-Tikriti (Arabic: [1]; April 28, 1937[2] – December 30, 2006[3]), was the President of Iraq from July 16, 1979, until April 9, 2003. ... Hitler redirects here. ... Idi Amin Dada (c. ... Fiji Times Online The Fiji Times is a daily newspaper published in Fiji. ... The Fiji Village is an online news service in Fiji. ... (Redirected from 13 December) December 13 is the 347th day of the year (348th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... December 14 is the 348th day of the year (349th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ...

On 2 February, Fiji Village quoted Qarase as having told Radio Australia that he was considering contesting the election to restore democracy, expected to be held within the next five years. Qarase called for the date to be brought forward. [4] February 2 is the 33rd day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. ... The Fiji Village is an online news service in Fiji. ... ABC Radio Australia is the international shortwave radio service operated by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Australias public broadcaster. ... After the coup détat that began in early December 2006, elections were planned to be held hopefully in 12 months, two years by the new interim prime minister Jona Senilagakali. ...

Qarase's cabinets

As Prime Minister, Qarase led three cabinets. The first was the interim cabinet formed in the wake of the 2000 coup. The second followed the election of 2001, and the third was the multi-party cabinet formed in 2006.

Interim cabinet, 2000-2001

Fiji received its independence in 1970. ... The Minister for Fijian Affairs is the Cabinet Minister responsible for the preservation of Fijian culture and for the economic and social development of indigenous Fijians. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, Speaker of the House of Representatives Brigadier-General Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, LVO, OBE, MSD, OStJ, (born 1941) (often referred to as Na Turaga Mai Naisogolaca) is a Fijian politician. ... Fijis chief governmental legal officer is the Attorney General. ... Alipate Qetaki Alipate Qetaki is a Fijian lawyer and politician, who served as Attorney-General and Minister for Justice in the interim Cabinet formed by Laisenia Qarase in the wake of the Fiji coup of 2000. ... Senator Apisai Tora Apisai Tora, sometimes known as Mohammad Tora, is a Fijian politician and former trade unionist. ... Hon. ... Hon. ... Ratu Jone Kubuabola Ratu Jone Yavala Kubuabola is Fijis Minister for Finance, a position he has held since 2000. ... The Minister for Foreign Affairs (commonly known as the Foreign Minister) is Fijis Cabinet Minister responsible for international relations and diplomacy. ... Kaliopate Tavola Kaliopate Tavola is a Fijian economist, diplomat, and politician, who has been his countrys Minister for Foreign Affairs since 2000. ... Hon. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Talemo Ratakele Ratu Talemo Ratakele is a Fijian politician, who served as Minister for Internal Affairs and Immigration in the interim Cabinet formed by Laisenia Qarase in the wake of the Fiji coup of 2000. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Categories: Fijian politicians | Stub ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Tatu Tevita Momoedonu has served as Prime Minister of Fiji twice - each time extremely briefly. ... Senator Mitieli Bulanauca Mitieli Bulanauca is a Fijian politician and former Cabinet Minister. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Tuuakitau Cokanauto Ratu Tuuakitau George Cokanauto (born 5 June 1945) is a Fijian chief and politician. ... George Shiu Raj is a Fijian politician, who served as Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs from 2001 to 30 September 2004, when he resigned amid accusations of misuse of funds. ... Hon. ... Hon. ... Ro is a title used by Fijian chiefs in the Province of Rewa. ... Ro Teimumu Kepa Ro Teimumu Vuikaba Kepa is a Fijian chief and politician. ... Hon. ... Hon. ... Hon. ... Adi is a title used by Fijian women of chiefly rank, namely female members of chiefly clans. ... Adi Finau Tabakaucoro Adi Finau Tamari Tabakaucoro is a Fijian politician, who served as Assistant Minister for Women, Culture, and Social Welfare in the interim Cabinet formed by Laisenia Qarase in the wake of the Fiji coup of 2000. ... Marieta Rigamoto Marieta Rigamoto is a Fijian politician. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Semi Seruvakula Ratu Semi Seruvakula is a Fijian politician, who served as Assistant Minister for Internal Affairs in the interim Cabinet formed by Laisenia Qarase in the wake of the Fiji coup of 2000. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ro Suliano Matanitobua Ro Suliano Matanitobua is a Fijian chief and politician, who served as Assistant Minister for Fijian Affairs in the interim Cabinet formed by Laisenia Qarase in the wake of the Fiji coup of 2000. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Kolinio Rokotuinaceva Ratu Kolinio Rokotuinaceva is a Fijian chief and politician, who has served as a Senator since 2001, when he was appointed as one of 14 nominees of the Great Council of Chiefs. ... Adi is a title used by Fijian women of chiefly rank, namely female members of chiefly clans. ... Adi Senimili Dyer Adi Senimili Dyer is a Fijian politician, who served as an Assistant Minister in the Prime Ministers Office in the interim Cabinet formed by Laisenia Qarase in the wake of the Fiji coup of 2000. ... Bernadette Rounds Ganilau Bernadette Ganilau, born as Bernadette Rounds, is a Fijian writer, broadcaster, and political activist. ...

SDL/CAMV cabinet, 2001-2006

As of February 2006, the Cabinet was as follows. Changes to the membership of the Cabinet since 2001 are footnoted. For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ...

Fiji received its independence in 1970. ... The Minister for Fijian Affairs is the Cabinet Minister responsible for the preservation of Fijian culture and for the economic and social development of indigenous Fijians. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Fijis chief governmental legal officer is the Attorney General. ... Qoriniasi Bale, Attorney-General of Fiji Qoriniasi Babitu Bale is a lawyer and political leader, who is currently Fijis Minister for Justice and Attorney-General, offices he has held on two separate occasions. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Ratu Jone Kubuabola Ratu Jone Yavala Kubuabola is Fijis Minister for Finance, a position he has held since 2000. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Ro Teimumu Kepa Ro Teimumu Vuikaba Kepa is a Fijian chief and politician. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Josefa Vosanibola Josefa Bole Vosanibola is a Fijian politician, who has served as Minister for Home Affairs since 16 December 2004, when he was appointed by Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase to succeed Joketani Cokanasiga. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... The Minister for Foreign Affairs (commonly known as the Foreign Minister) is Fijis Cabinet Minister responsible for international relations and diplomacy. ... Kaliopate Tavola Kaliopate Tavola is a Fijian economist, diplomat, and politician, who has been his countrys Minister for Foreign Affairs since 2000. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Ted Young Ted Young is a Fijian politician, who has served in the Cabinet of Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase since 2001. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Solomone Naivalu is a Fijian politician, who currently serves in the Cabinet as Minister for Health. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Samisoni Tikoinasau Samisoni Tikoinasau Speight is a Fijian politician, who currently holds Cabinet office as Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources. ... The Conservative Alliance (Matanitu Vanua in Fijian) is a nationalistic political party in Fiji. ... Adi Asenaca Caucau Adi Asenaca Coboiverata Caucau-Filipe, generally known simply as Adi Asenaca Caucau, is a Fijian politician who has served as Minister For Women and Minister for Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation since 2001. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu is a Fijian high chief and politician, who was the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources in the Cabinet of Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, prior to his resignation on 7 April 2005. ... The Conservative Alliance (Matanitu Vanua in Fijian) is a nationalistic political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Kenneth Zinck Kenneth Vincent Zinck is a Fijian politician, who currently serves as Minister for Labour, Industrial Relations and Productivity. ... The New Labour Unity Party was a Fijian political party, which broke away from the Fiji Labour Party in May 2001. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... Hon. ... The Conservative Alliance (Matanitu Vanua in Fijian) is a nationalistic political party in Fiji. ... George Shiu Raj is a Fijian politician, who served as Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs from 2001 to 30 September 2004, when he resigned amid accusations of misuse of funds. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Marieta Rigamoto Marieta Rigamoto is a Fijian politician. ... Nanise Nagusuca (born 1953) is a Fijian politician, who was elected to the House of Representatives in a special election on December 11, 2004. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Tomasi Namua Sauqaqa is a former Fijian politician, who served in the Cabinet as Assistant Minister for Health from 2001 to 2006. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Simione Kaitani Simione Kaitani is a Fijian politician, who is currently the Minister for Transport and Shipping. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Samisoni Tikoinasau Samisoni Tikoinasau Speight is a Fijian politician, who currently holds Cabinet office as Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources. ... April 8 is the 98th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (99th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu is a Fijian high chief and politician, who was the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources in the Cabinet of Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, prior to his resignation on 7 April 2005. ... The Fiji coup of 2000 was a complicated affair involving a civilian putsch by hardline Fijian nationalists against the elected government of Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry on 19 May 2000, the attempt by President Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara to assert executive authority on 27 May, and his own resignation, possibly... Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu is a Fijian high chief and politician, who was the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources in the Cabinet of Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, prior to his resignation on 7 April 2005. ... September 13 is the 256th day of the year (257th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... Simione Kaitani Simione Kaitani is a Fijian politician, who is currently the Minister for Transport and Shipping. ... September 30 is the 273rd day of the year (274th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2004 (MMIV) was a leap year starting on Thursday of the Gregorian calendar. ... George Shiu Raj is a Fijian politician, who served as Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs from 2001 to 30 September 2004, when he resigned amid accusations of misuse of funds. ... September 13 is the 256th day of the year (257th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... In criminal law, an acquittal is the legal result of a verdict of not guilty, or some similar end of the proceeding that terminates it with prejudice without a verdict of guilty being entered against the accused. ... The High Court of Fiji is independent of the legislative and executive branches of the acting government. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... Dr. Ahmed Ali Dr. Ahmed Ali (1938 - 8 June 2005) was a Fijian academic and politician who held Cabinet office several times from the late 1970s onwards. ... The Sydney Opera House on Sydney Harbour Sydney (pronounced ) is the most populous city in Australia with a metropolitan area population of over 4. ... June 8 is the 159th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (160th in leap years), with 206 days remaining. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... July 12 is the 193rd day (194th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian Calendar, with 172 days remaining. ... Marieta Rigamoto Marieta Rigamoto is a Fijian politician. ... August 18 is the 230th day of the year (231st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Marieta Rigamoto Marieta Rigamoto is a Fijian politician. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2005 (MMV) was a common year starting on Saturday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

Multiparty cabinet, 2006

The following Cabinet was appointed following the parliamentary election held on 6-13 May 2006. It was deposed in the military coup of 5 December 2006. Assistant Ministers in previous Cabinets were replaced by Ministers of State in this Cabinet, with functions essentially unchanged. The Constitution of Fiji requires general elections for the House of Representatives to be held at least once every five years. ... May 6 is the 126th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (127th in leap years). ... May 13 is the 133rd day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (134th in leap years). ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ... The Fijian coup détat of December 2006 occurred as a continuation of the pressure which had been building since the military unrest of the 2000 Fijian coup détat and 2005-2006 Fijian political crisis. ... December 5 is the 339th day (340th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ...

Fiji received its independence in 1970. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Fijis chief governmental legal officer is the Attorney General. ... Qoriniasi Bale, Attorney-General of Fiji Qoriniasi Babitu Bale is a lawyer and political leader, who is currently Fijis Minister for Justice and Attorney-General, offices he has held on two separate occasions. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Jone Kubuabola Ratu Jone Yavala Kubuabola is Fijis Minister for Finance, a position he has held since 2000. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Ro is a title used by Fijian chiefs in the Province of Rewa. ... Ro Teimumu Kepa Ro Teimumu Vuikaba Kepa is a Fijian chief and politician. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... The Minister for Fijian Affairs is the Cabinet Minister responsible for the preservation of Fijian culture and for the economic and social development of indigenous Fijians. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu is a Fijian high chief and politician, who was the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources in the Cabinet of Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, prior to his resignation on 7 April 2005. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... George Shiu Raj is a Fijian politician, who served as Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs from 2001 to 30 September 2004, when he resigned amid accusations of misuse of funds. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... The Minister for Foreign Affairs (commonly known as the Foreign Minister) is Fijis Cabinet Minister responsible for international relations and diplomacy. ... Kaliopate Tavola Kaliopate Tavola is a Fijian economist, diplomat, and politician, who has been his countrys Minister for Foreign Affairs since 2000. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Josefa Vosanibola Josefa Bole Vosanibola is a Fijian politician, who has served as Minister for Home Affairs since 16 December 2004, when he was appointed by Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase to succeed Joketani Cokanasiga. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... A Minister without Portfolio is a government minister with no specific responsibilities. ... Adi is a title used by Fijian women of chiefly rank, namely female members of chiefly clans. ... Adi Samanunu Cakobau-Talakuli (born 1940) is a Fijian chief, politician, and diplomat. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... Poseci Bune is a Fijian politician, who is currently (2005) the Deputy Leader of the opposition Fiji Labour Party (FLP). ... The Fiji Labour Party is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The Fiji Labour Party is a political party in Fiji. ... Dr. Gunasagaran Gounder Gunasagaran Gounder is a Fijian medical doctor and politician of Indian descent. ... The Fiji Labour Party is a political party in Fiji. ... Gyani Nand Gyani Nand is a Fijian politician of Indian descent. ... The Fiji Labour Party is a political party in Fiji. ... Lekh Ram Vayeshnoi, M.P. Lekh Ram Vayeshnoi, is a Fijian politician of Indian descent. ... The Fiji Labour Party is a political party in Fiji. ... Udit Narayan Udit Narayan is a Fijian politician of Indian descent. ... The Fiji Labour Party is a political party in Fiji. ... Chaitanya Lakshman (born in 1968) is a Fiji Indian lawyer, social worker and politician who served in the the multi-party cabinet of the Qarase Government. ... The Fiji Labour Party is a political party in Fiji. ... Ragho Nand Ragho Nand is a Fijian politician of Indian descent. ... The Fiji Labour Party is a political party in Fiji. ... Adi is a title used by Fijian women of chiefly rank, namely female members of chiefly clans. ... The Fiji Labour Party is a political party in Fiji. ... Adi is a title used by Fijian women of chiefly rank, namely female members of chiefly clans. ... Adi Asenaca Caucau Adi Asenaca Coboiverata Caucau-Filipe, generally known simply as Adi Asenaca Caucau, is a Fijian politician who has served as Minister For Women and Minister for Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation since 2001. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Rajesh Singh is a Fijian politician of Indian descent, who briefly held Cabinet office in mid-2006. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Ted Young Ted Young is a Fijian politician, who has served in the Cabinet of Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase since 2001. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Samisoni Tikoinasau Samisoni Tikoinasau Speight is a Fijian politician, who currently holds Cabinet office as Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Hon. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Ro is a title used by Fijian chiefs in the Province of Rewa. ... Ro Suliano Matanitobua Ro Suliano Matanitobua is a Fijian chief and politician, who served as Assistant Minister for Fijian Affairs in the interim Cabinet formed by Laisenia Qarase in the wake of the Fiji coup of 2000. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Josefa Dimuri Ratu Josefa Dimuri is a Fijian chief and politician, who has been a Senator since 2001. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... Major General Jioji Konousi Konrote, better known as George Konrote, is a retired Major-General of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and currently a Fijian Cabinet Minister and former diplomat. ... Ratu is a title used by Fijians of chiefly rank. ... Ratu Jone Navakamocea is a Fijian chief and politician. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... The Fiji Labour Party is a political party in Fiji. ... The United Fiji Party (Fijian: Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua) is a political party in Fiji. ... The Senate of Fiji is the upper chamber of Parliament. ... October 13 is the 286th day of the year (287th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... For the Manfred Mann album, see 2006 (album). ...

Sources

• About the 2000 interim cabinet (French)
• Fijian parliamentary website

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Laisenia Qarase