8 Nov 2006

Fiji army chief to speak this afternoon

10:49 am on 8 November 2006

Fiji's military commander, Frank Bainimarama, is to speak publicly this afternoon for the first time since arriving back in the country.

But the military is tightlipped on what he will say and is calling on its troops to remain loyal.

Linda Skates reports from outside the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Suva..

"The military is at full mobilisation with army reservists being told to remain in camp for an extra week. They've been ordered to remain firm and loyal and told that their courage will be tested. Their commander continues to refuse to meet with the Police Commissioner after the military called for Andrew Hughes to step aside. Nor is Commodore Bainimarama willing to meet with the Prime Minister, Laisenia Qarase, prior to holding his media conference. He is then expected to address the nation."