LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
LONDON, Apr 28 (IPS) – It’s been a time of serious change in Fiji following the nation’s December 2022 election. A detailed vote was adopted by the formation of a brand new coalition authorities. Frank Bainimarama was out as prime minister after 16 years, changed by Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka was hardly a brand new face, having been prime minister within the Nineteen Nineties, and each Bainimarama and Rabuka had beforehand led army coups. For Fiji’s civil society, the query was whether or not this political shift would convey enhancements in civic and democratic freedoms. Bainimarama’s authorities had proven itself more and more illiberal of dissent.
Individuals who criticised the federal government had been subjected to harassment and arrest. In July 2021, 9 opposition politicians had been arrested, questioned and accused of inciting unrest. In 2020, opposition get together workplaces had been raided by police in response to social media posts vital of the federal government.
The outgoing authorities used the Public Order Act to limit protests, together with by opposition events. The Fiji Commerce Union Congress was repeatedly denied permission to march and its chief charged with public order offences. Police usually used extreme power in opposition to protests, with impunity. There was, in brief, a lot room for enchancment.
Constructive steps on media freedom
Essentially the most encouraging transfer thus far is the repeal of the Media Business Improvement Act. This regulation, handed underneath the Bainimarama authorities, established a extremely interventionist government-controlled media regulator. Journalists may very well be jailed for 2 years and media shops slapped with heavy fines if their reporting was judged to go in opposition to the nationwide or public curiosity – imprecise phrases open to broad interpretation. This inspired self-censorship.
The regulation was one of many principal causes Fiji was the lowest-ranking Pacific Island nation on Reporters With out Borders’ World Press Freedom Index. Media freedom constraints got here from the highest, with the federal government favouring state-aligned media, together with by withholding promoting from extra vital shops.
Now the media and civil society will probably be on the lookout for the federal government to go additional. A sedition regulation that may convey in depth jail sentences stays in want of reform. And past this, the federal government must actively help the event of unbiased Fijian media, together with by means of the fairer distribution of advert spending.
The brand new authorities has additionally moved to rebuild relationships with commerce unions. In February it confirmed it might re-establish an efficient tripartite discussion board that brings collectively authorities, commerce unions and employers; its predecessor was accused of not taking this critically. The brand new authorities has said it’s going to convey to an finish the harassment, intimidation and arrest of union leaders. Unions will work to carry the federal government to those guarantees.
A fall from grace
These adjustments have come in opposition to a backdrop of continuous political polarisation. It’s been fairly the journey for Bainimarama since dropping energy. In February he was suspended from parliament. This got here after he used his first speech as chief of the opposition to ship a stinging critique of Fiji’s president, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
In his speech, Bainimarama appealed to the army to ‘not forsake their constitutional position’. This appeared a coded plea for army intervention: the 2013 structure, launched by Bainimarama, provides the army the ability to intervene to make sure the ‘security and safety of the nation’. When he was nonetheless prime minister, as post-electoral negotiations had been going down, Bainimarama had ordered the army onto the streets.
Bainimarama’s response to his suspension was to resign from parliament. However he made clear his intent to remain politically energetic and stays get together chief.
Final month Bainimarama was charged with abuse of workplace whereas prime minister. He was granted bail after pleading not responsible. He’s alleged to have intervened to cease a police investigation into alleged corruption on the College of the South Pacific. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Tukaituraga Qiliho, presently suspended, can be charged with abuse of workplace for a similar case and has additionally pleaded not responsible.
Risks forward
The plain hazard is that Bainimarama, not confined by parliamentary niceties, may search to stir unrest by means of sensationalism and disinformation, which may provide a pretext for his supporters within the army to intervene. The spectre of army rule is rarely distant in Fiji. There have been 4 coups since independence in 1970. Rabuka led two in 1987 after which Bainimarama headed coups in 2000 and 2006. On this context, it’s ominous that in January the pinnacle of the military expressed concern about ‘sweeping adjustments’ being launched by the brand new authorities.
On all events the pretext for coups has been ethnic unrest, with Fiji’s inhabitants broadly divided between Indigenous Fijians and other people of Asian heritage. Civil society and the worldwide neighborhood might want to keep alert to any makes an attempt to foster division and mobilise one inhabitants group in opposition to the opposite.
On the similar time the brand new authorities must watch out for fuelling narratives that it’s being vindictive in direction of Bainimarama and his get together. There’s a necessity to make sure that numerous factors of view may be aired – together with from the brand new opposition. As a former coup chief, Rabuka must maintain proving his dedication to democracy.
What occurs subsequent in Fiji is of concern not only for Fijians however for the area, for the reason that nation is a serious hub and host of key regional establishments. China and the USA, together with Australia, are attempting to construct nearer relations with Fiji as they compete for influence amongst Pacific Island nations. So whether or not Fiji turns into extra democratic and opens up civic area issues.
In these early days of the brand new authorities there may be no room for complacency. Fiji’s civil society should be supported and enabled as an important democratic power. And it should carry on participating constructively to make sure that authorities guarantees are adopted by deeds that advance rights.
Andrew Firmin is CIVICUS Editor-in-Chief, co-director and author for CIVICUS Lens and co-author of the State of Civil Society Report.
© Inter Press Service (2023) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
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