12 Sep 2017

Fiji's opposition says Govt bill will stifle debate

From , 3:03 pm on 12 September 2017

Fiji's main opposition party is calling on the government to withdraw a bill it says will stifle any criticism or debate.

Bill 28, which is likely to be passed when parliament sits in November, proposes penalties for defaming, demeaning or undermining the sanctity of parliament.

Individuals who are convicted would face a US$15,000 fine or five years in prison, while companies would would face a US$50,000 fine and prison terms for directors and managers.

The general secretary of the Sodelpa party, Adi Litia Quonibaravi told Jamie Tahana the provisions could be turned into a political weapon.

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Photo: Fiji Parliament

The government says the bill won't block criticism of MPs and only applies to the institution of parliament.