Former prime minister Laisenia Qarase will be remembered for stabilising the Fijian economy after the 2000 coup, says National Federation Party leader Prof Biman Prasad.
He said his ability to successfully lead a genuine multiparty Cabinet after the general election in May 2006 was a demonstration of his ability and uniqueness to espouse genuine power-sharing.
“Unfortunately, this genuine power-sharing for the first time in our independent history was tragically cut short after six months by the military coup of 5th December 2006,” Prof Prasad said.
He said Mr Qarase maintained a relatively stable economy during his six-year term as the PM.
“Personally, I first came into contact with Mr Qarase during my brief employment with Fiji Development Bank, of which he was the chief executive.
“He was always transparent and conducted himself ethically in all his dealings.
“He accepted constructive criticism and alternative ideas both as a CEO and as PM.
“The NFP expresses its deepest condolences to Mr Qarase’s wife, Leba, and their five children and family members.
“May God grant them courage to bear their irreplaceable loss and provide them comfort in their hour of grief.”
