21 Apr 2010

Samoa's war of words with Fiji over immunity decree continues

4:46 pm on 21 April 2010

The war of words between Samoa's prime minister and the Fiji leader has continued, with Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi suggesting that Fiji's dictator learn lessons given for free.

The row erupted over the Fiji interim regime's decree last month giving itself immunity from prosecution.

Tuilaepa described the move as an admission of guilt for the military takeover but Fiji's Commodore Frank Bainimarama dismissed the remark as Tuilapea's bid to whip up a regional outcry so that the Pacific Forum secretariat can be moved from Suva to Apia.

Tuilaepa says Commodore Bainimarama has no say or business with either the Forum or its secretariat.

He says he should leave Forum issues to the bonafide elected leaders as small-time unelected thugs are not welcome.

Speaking to the Savali newspaper, Tuilaepa said calling the Commodore a Prime Minister is like calling a scrawny chicken a soaring eagle.