Fiji police have begun investigations into public statements made by the military commander, Commodore Bainimarama.
Fiji TV reports that they include Commodore Bainimarama's statement earlier this month threatening to take over the government if it persisted with certain policies opposed by the military.
The police commissioner, Andrew Hughes, has confirmed that the investigation follows a complaint lodged by the home affairs minister, Josefa Vosanibola.
The police media liaison officer, Sylvia Low, is quoted as saying the nature of the statements is being assessed to determine if they were seditious or treasonous.
Meanwhile, the director of public prosecutions has clarified that the power to investigate so-called political statements rests with the police and not him.
Josaia Naigulevu says his office has the constitutional powers to institute, conduct and discontinue criminal proceedings, but has no power to conduct investigations as this is the sole responsibility of the police.
Mr Naigulevu says his office is unable to file any charges or commence criminal prosecution unilaterally without the evidence that only a police investigation can gather.
