31 May 2006

Fiji's Chaudhry ponders action over possible opposition top job choice

5:49 pm on 31 May 2006

The Fiji Labour Party is reported to be planning what steps to take if President Iloilo does not appoint its leader, Mahendra Chaudhry, as the opposition leader.

Radio Legend quotes reliable sources as saying that Labour is looking at various options which would be available to Mr Chaudhry if a decision is not made in his favour.

The sources say that Labour will not publicly challenge the president's decision.

But they say Labour will use its members in parliament, including those in the multi-party cabinet, to move a motion of no confidence to remove anyone appointed opposition leader besides Mr Chaudhry.

The radio quotes Labour lawyers, Rajendra Chaudhry and Anand Singh, as saying they will wait for the president's decision before making any comments.

Government House has confirmed that President Iloilo is still analyzing the legal opinions provided to him on the issue and a decision will be made this week.