Fiji Politics

The politics of Fiji normally is based on a parliamentary system of government, where the Prime Minister of Fiji is the head of government, the President the head of state, and of a multi-party system. Executive power is exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested in both the government and the Parliament of Fiji. The Judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature. However, since independence there have been four coups in Fiji, two in 1987, one in 2000 and one in late 2006.

Citing corruption, Commodore Josaia Voreqe (Frank) Bainimarama staged a military takeover on December 5, 2006 against the Prime Minister that was installed after the 2000 coup. The military alleged that the government was corrupt and racist. The commodore took over the powers of the presidency and dissolved the parliament, paving the way for the military to continue the take over. At issue was previously pending legislation to pardon those involved in the 2000 coup. Despite intervention to reconcile the parties by the President, Vice President and Helen Clark, Prime Minister of New Zealand there was no willingness to make concessions on either side.

Following the coup, the Commonwealth of Nations held an emergency meeting in London, where they declared Fiji’s membership suspended. On December 9, the military rulers advertised for positions in the Government, including cabinet posts, in a national newspaper. They stated people wishing to apply must be "of outstanding character", have no criminal record, and never been bankrupt.

On January 4, 2007, the military announced that it was restoring executive power to President Iloilo, who made a broadcast endorsing the actions of the military. The next day, Iloilo named Bainimarama as the interim Prime Minister, indicating that the Military was still effectively in control.

Following ongoing criticism from neighbors, specifically Australia and New Zealand, the New Zealand High Commissioner Michael Green was expelled from Fiji in mid June 2007, in the aftermath of restrictive emergency regulations having been lifted.

On September 6, 2007, Commodore Frank Bainimarama said Fiji’s military declared a state of emergency again when ousted Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase returned to Suva after 8 months of exile from his home island. Elections for a new government are tentatively set for March 2009.

Looking for more detailed information? Click on the topics below: