4 Dec 2004

Fiji military expresses concern about the long-term security of the country

9:05 am on 4 December 2004

Fiji's military has given a fresh warning that it will not allow people in high places to manipulate the law for their hidden agendas.

Fiji TV says the warning followed a meeting between the military commander with his senior officers and the former military commander and recent chairman of the Great Council of Chiefs, Ratu Epeli Ganilau.

It came in the wake of attacks on the military by the pro-coup government MP, Samisoni Tikonisau, and the attorney general, Qoriniasi Bale.

A military statement said the current situation in Fiji is extraordinary in that prominent people in government are charged with coup related offences.

It says the military is concerned because these issues will affect the long-term security of the country.

The military says it will do everything possible to ensure that the legal framework is not monopolised for the benefit of coup tainted politicians.

It warned pro-coup Speight's brother Mr Tikonisau that it was members of his Conservative Alliance party who staged the coup and sparked off the present instability.