30 Oct 2007

Fiji's deposed SDL party says it is willing to consider amnesty for coup makers

3:13 pm on 30 October 2007

Fiji's SDL party says it is willing to discuss amnesty for all those involved in the December military coup in talks the interim prime minister.

Fiji TV reports that the SDL's offer comes even though no amnesty has been suggested by Commodore Bainimarama.

The report says the SDL's director, Peceli Kinivuwai, revealed this as the party awaits confirmation that Commodore Bainimarama will meet their leader, Laisenia Qarase, for face to face talks.

Mr Kinivuwai says Commodore Bainimarama has indicated through his permanent secretary, Parmesh Chand, that he is willing to meet Mr Qarase after ground rules have been set.

Mr Kinivuwai says Mr Qarase is willing to discuss all issues which will help resolve the current situation in Fiji.

Commodore Bainimarama made the offer to meet Mr Qarase at the recent Pacific Islands Forum summit in Tonga.