9 Apr 2009

Fiji political forum under way despite exclusion of key parties

1:43 pm on 9 April 2009

A political dialogue forum is continuing in Fiji today despite four major political parties being excluded.

The four parties were asked to agree to certain terms, including the interim regime's electoral reforms, and not to talk to certain media outlets, but refused.

The interim Prime Minister, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, says media outlets and political parties are unable to work together with the regime for the common good of Fiji.

Our correspondent, Matelita Ragogo reports from Suva

"He made reference to the media, really Fiji Times and Fiji TV, as merchants of doom and gloom after stating that political parties who were not invited were not committed and sincere about moving this country forward. That is what framed his eventual comment that he, or the political dialogue participants didn't really have the luxury of time to wait around for these people, that they were going to move this country forward with or without the media, or support from political parties."

Matelita Ragogo reporting from Suva.