We are not paranoid: Bainimarama
Friday September 07, 2007

Fiji's interim Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama says the emergency regulation "is not here to stay and is not an indication of the interim Government's paranoia".

In the face of rising criticisms against the reactivation of the Public Emergency Regulation, from both locally and abroad, Commodore Bainimarama has pleaded with the international community and the media "not to exaggerate" its purpose.

"We understand the concerns of the international community, which is why we are adamant that the Public Emergency Regulation be only a temporary measure," he said in press statement.

"We need the understanding, cooperation and assistance of the international community and our neighbours to be able to continue making progress.



"This regulation will be in place for 30 days, however it could be withdrawn earlier or for that matter extended should there be elements that will seek to disrupt or threat public order and peace."

Commodore Bainimarama said the emergency regulation was invoked yesterday to restrain deposed Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase from making statements, which the military considers to be inciting.

"We call on Qarase and his followers to exercise responsibility and wisdom and consider our nation's best interests," he said.

"We ask that you bear with us in our effort to bring about parliamentary democracy to our nation, Fiji."