8 Dec 2004

Fiji attorney-general says army is biggest threat to national security

11:12 am on 8 December 2004

Fiji's attorney general says the country's military is the biggest threat to national security.

Qoriniasi Bale told Fiji TV last night that the military continues to breach fundamental laws by by-passing the home affairs minister to consult the president.

Mr Bale said soldiers must remember they are public servants and if they wish to make public comments on matters of a political nature, they should go through the proper channels.

He said the military had no business in any decision that the government or the president make.

Mr Bale said the army's bullying tactics are tantamount to treason.

His reaction came in response to strong criticism by the military commander, Commodore Bainimarama, of Mr Bale's actions in prematurely releasing the jailed former vice president Seniloli

Commodore Bainimarama had warned that the military would not allow people in high places to manipulate the law for their hidden agendas and for the benefit of coup tainted politicians.