Fiji

Australia’s Albanese heads to China touting ‘consistent, steady’ engagement
Labor leader is first Australian prime minister to visit since 2016 after a turbulent period in bilateral ties.
Published On 4 Nov 2023
S Korea, Pacific Islands to boost ties after first-ever summit
Inaugural Korea-Pacific Islands Summit comes amid Seoul’s concerns over China’s growing influence in Indo-Pacific.
Published On 31 May 2023
Fiji suspends police commissioner, ends China policing agreement
Commissioner of Police Sitiveni Qiliho is seen as close to former Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama.
Published On 27 Jan 2023
Pacific Islands urge Japan to delay release of Fukushima waste
Planned release of wastewater raises concerns among nations that are still grappling with legacy of nuclear testing.
Published On 18 Jan 2023

The statement by the head of Fiji’s military stirred anxiety in the Pacific nation that has seen four coups in 35 years.

The government estimates more than 600 communities could be forced to move, including 42 villages under urgent threat.

Outgoing Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama said after losing nomination vote: ‘This is democracy and this is my legacy.’

The prime minister, who has refused to concede, said the military was deployed to ensure security.

Fiji’s police force has called for calm and urged ‘all Fijians to respect the political process’ amid power transition.

Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama and political rival Sitiveni Rabuka are projected to win 26 seats each in parliament.

Move comes after Fiji authorities took down a provisional tally that showed the opposition holding a very early lead.

Frank Bainimarama pledges to respect result as he faces off with a rival looking to end his 16-year stint in power.

Wednesday’s general election pits two former coup leaders in a test of Fiji’s fledgling democracy.

More than 100,000 people die on the oceans each year, a rising number fuelled by impunity drawn from poor regulations.

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