26 Apr 2007

Fiji's deposed Prime Minister accepts limits on political activities

9:28 am on 26 April 2007

Fiji's deposed prime minister, Laisenia Qarase, has promised not to organize, incite people or be involved in any assembly for political purposes if the military allows him back into Suva.

The Fiji Sun reports that the undertaking has been given in a motion filed in the Suva High Court by Mr Qarase's lawyer, Tevita Fa.

Mr Qarase has also undertaken to comply with all orders issued to him under the provisions of the state of emergency regulations.

In a separate affidavit, Mr Qarase says he continues to be deprived of reasonable access to his lawyer in Suva and is seeking an order to stop the military from obstructing or interfering with his freedom.

The deposed prime minister says it is difficult for him to provide Mr Fa with proper, clear and full instructions about his case.

He has cited several public announcements made by the military through the media threatening he would be arrested if he returns to Suva.

Mr Fa says the decision on Mr Qarase's freedom is in the hands of the court.

The military maintains that as long as the Emergency Decree is in place, Mr Qarase would not be allowed to leave his home island.