Three ruling Fijian political parties rejected moves by the revived iTaukei Movement to topple the Chaudhry government.
This article was published by The Fiji Times on April 7, 2000.
A joint statement issued by the parliamentary leaders of the three parties stated the Taukei Movement’s agenda was racist and totally deplorable.
The statement was signed by Dr Isimeli Cokanasiga of the Fijian Association Party, Meli Bogileka of the Party of National Unity and Poseci Bune of the Veitokani Lewenivanua Va Karisito.
The three parties stated plans by the former movement leader, Apisai Tora, would result in anarchy and economic and social destruction for everyone.
“It should be made clear to all the people that the People’s Government is not a government only of the Fiji Labour Party and Prime Minister Chaudhry,” a joint statement read.
“The People’s Government comprises the FLP, FAP, PANU, which was created to bring about unity.
“The FAP, PANU and VLV government ministers and members of Parliament are all Fijian, all legally elected by the people in democratic elections in May, 1999.
“Indeed, out of the present 18- member Cabinet, there are 12 Fijian ministers and six Indian ministers.”
The joint statement read the People’s Government had an overwhelming mandate from the vast majority of the people of Fiji to govern the country for five years.
It stated plans by Mr Tora would be a dangerous act since he lost the May general election and was trying to reject the will of the people to serve his personal agenda.
“The people of Fiji, hurt by the experiences of the military coup in 1987, are fed up with such politicians who are sore losers,” the statement read.
The three parliamentary leaders said the Fijian community should be made fully aware of the consequences of the proposed plans.
“One of the consequences would be no more investments, local and overseas businesses, and other developments.
“Professionals and qualified people will leave the country.
“Chaos and ruin will face this country and the people will be affected.”
The joint statement said innocent people would suffer and not Mr Tora and his group.
The leaders also warned of reductions in wages and salaries, the devaluation of the Fiji dollar and an increase in crime if the Taukei Movement was allowed to carry out its plans.
