30 Jun 2005

Fiji President may comment on Reconciliation Bill during new parliamentary session

10:13 am on 30 June 2005

A report from Fiji says President Iloilo is expected to make his views on the government's Reconciliation and Unity Bill known when he addresses parliament in August.

Radio Legend says it has been informed by reliable sources that the president will raise his concerns over the Bill when opening a new session of parliament in front of members of both houses.

By convention, the head of state outlines government policies for the coming year during this speech, but the report says President Iloilo is also expected to speak on the Bill as well.

Meanwhile, the home affairs minister, Josefa Vosanibola, says the president has not expressed his views on the Bill since it was tabled in the Lower House last month.

Mr Vosanibola has denied reports that President Iloilo had asked the prime minister, Laisenia Qarase, to withdraw the Bill because some of its provisions may be unconstitutional.

The reports said the President raised his concerns about the Bill after consultations with Vice President Madraiwiwi who is a lawyer and former High Court judge.