(o+) Somare on Fiji Situation

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare has given his full support to Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama and his new road map for Fiji.

In an interview with the Grand Chief yesterday, a day after the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) meet in Vanuatu, he said just like his counterparts he was pleased that the Fijian leader was there to brief them personally on the situation in Fiji." We've heard from the Fijian leader of the situation in Fiji and I fully support the new road map," Sir Michael said."I am pleased and grateful that we are able to have in our midst our colleague from Fiji and he should be rest assured that the MSG supports him."

Speaking on the issue of Fiji’s suspension from the Pacific Islands Forum and the Commonwealth Sir Michael said he would totally oppose the move. “I for one do not believe that such an action is helpful to the process of returning Fiji to the democratic fold. I will oppose such moves.”He told his MSG counterparts that the people of Fiji needed them more than ever before.“MSG must show leadership on Fiji issue. Let us work towards a long term solution that together that is forward-looking, proactive and constructive for our Fijian friends- not some band aid solution.”

Past experience, he said, suggested that hurriedly prepared elections and superficial tinkering of rules did not usher in real democracy.He said the current MSG chair and PM of Vanuatu had been tasked through the joint communiqué to formally present the case of Fiji’s suspension to the Cairns Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting. He said while the Vanuatu meeting was specifically to help a member of the MSG family of nations, they obviously could not impose their will on Fiji.“All of us - as MSG countries - must find a way forward together by mutual consent. This would require meeting each other midway on any proposed actions.”

From PNG’s stand as an elected government, Sir Michael said they would prefer to see solutions to be conducted within a constitutional framework. This he said would lend the necessary legitimacy to actions.“For any actions to succeed, it must have the support for all stakeholders in Fiji,” Sir Michael said.“Change through consent is more durable. In this regard, I beg the indulgence and understanding of the Fiji Government.” Sir Michael said he was prepared to approach the Fiji issue with a fresh outlook.“Let us forget the past disappointments and differences,” he said. “Let us dig deep within our souls and find the necessary compromises that would move Fiji closer towards democracy.”

He firmly believed Fiji’s problems could only be resolved the Pacific Way.

Report and photo Fiji Sun.