1 Aug 2009

CMAG gives Fiji till September to restore democracy or face full suspension

5:18 am on 1 August 2009

The Commonwealth has reaffirmed its ultimatum to Fiji's military ruler to restore democracy.

The decision was made by nine ministers meeting in London.

Ben Lowings reports.

"After nearly seven hours of talks, ministers emerged with a communique that threatened Fiji with full suspension from all parts of the Commonwealth. The ministers gave Fiji a deadline of the 1st of September to commit to elections in October 2010. Full suspension from the Commonwealth would mean Fiji athletes would not be able to compete in the Commonwealth Games next year. Papua New Guinea's Foreign Minister, Sam Abal, said he agreed with the other ministers, and urged Fiji to engage with the process of democracy."