12 Jun 2007

Diplomatic reshuffle reported to be underway in Fiji

10:53 am on 12 June 2007

A major diplomatic reshuffle is reported to be under way in Fiji with some senior military officers tipped to take up diplomatic postings overseas.

The ambassador to China, Col Jeremaia Waqanisau, has already been recalled.

The high commissioner to Malaysia, Ratu Epeli Kanaimawi; Bal Ram in New Zealand and Amraiya Naidu in Australia as well as the ambassador to the United States, Jesoni Vitusaqavulu, are expected to return soon.

A foreign affairs spokesman has been quoted as saying they were political appointees.

The Land Force Commander, Col Pita Driti, is tipped to be named high commissioner to Malaysia.

The interim minister for foreign affairs, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, has confirmed that Col Driti's name is being considered among others and new diplomatic appointments would be announced in due course.

Col Driti has confirmed he is receiving orientation at the ministry for foreign affairs but declined to say anything further.

Col Driti's chief of staff, Lt Col Mason Smith, is tipped to be posted to Fiji's mission at the United Nations in New York.

With the deputy military commander, Navy Captain Esala Teleni already named as the new police commissioner, a major reshuffle among the military's senior ranks is also expected to be announced soon.