Give Qarase what is his: Rabuka
Thursday September 06, 2007

Former Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the interim Government's decision to strip ousted Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase of all entitlements and benefits is "very unfortunate".

Rabuka told fijilive that Qarase, like former Fiji Presidents, Vice-Presidents and Prime Ministers, should get his entitlement, which includes free provision of security, transport, pension and medical treatment.

"It is an entitlement provided for by an Act of Parliament," he said.

However, Rabuka admits that the current regime can also make changes by decree with the accent of the present President.

"But, whether it will be carried through in the next election or not is another matter," he adds.

"It is very unfortunate because whatever we do will be done unto us."

Qarase said the decision is "unfair and illegal". He said he is hoping the matter will be resolved and does not end up in court .