31 Oct 2007

Former Fiji opposition leader says he will not join new council

8:57 am on 31 October 2007

Mick Beddoes, who was the leader of the Opposition in the Fiji Parliament before the December coup of last year, says he will not join the proposed new National Council for the Betterment of Fiji to develop a People's Charter for Change and Progress

There is considerable opposition in the country about the shape and role of the proposed council.

The High Chief of one province has said it will not take part.

Both the Soqosogo in Levenivanua, the largest political party and the National Federation party say they will not join the council as it is unconstitutional.

Mick Beddoes says that before he considers being part of the council there will need to be talks about the role of the military in a future Fiji

"Because we haven't addressed the fundamental, which is the future role of the military, because coups can't happen unless the military is involved."

Mick Beddoes.