8 Mar 2004

Fiji's military commander says he is ready for any further attempts to oust him

7:51 am on 8 March 2004

Fiji's military commander says he is ready for any attempt to overthrow him.

The Fiji Sun says Commodore Bainimarama has made the statement in response to claims that moves are afoot to oust him.

It quotes him as saying he is ready and waiting.

The Sun quotes sources as saying the moves against the Commander are linked to five senior military officers who were sent on leave in January when they refused to pledge allegiance to the commander.

Two weeks ago, Commodore Bainimarama said the military did not want these kinds of officers in its midst and urged them to resign or face forceful removal.