Deposed Fiji PM optimistic about 2009 elections
Updated
![Laisenia Qarase says he is happy with what was discussed at a meeting of Pacific ministers in Suva. [AFP]](http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/img/news/base/fiji_qarase_afp_0506.jpg "Laisenia Qarase says he is happy with what was discussed at a meeting of Pacific ministers in Suva. [AFP]")
Laisenia Qarase says he is happy with what was discussed at a meeting of Pacific ministers in Suva. [AFP]
Fiji's former prime minister, Laisenia Qarase, says he believes elections will take place in the country next year, despite a number of indications to the contrary.
Mr Qarase was deposed in the 2006 coup when military chief, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, appointed himself interim prime minister.
Our correspondent in Fiji, Kerri Ritchie, says Mr Qarase has had an hour of talks in Suva with four Pacific ministers and the New Zealand and Australian foreign ministers.
Mr Qarase says he is "very happy" with what was discussed, but wouldn't go into detail.
He says Commodore Bainimarama must hold elections next year.
"The interim government made a promise to hold them [and] he should honour that promise," he said.
He says there have been "negative vibes" about the elections in Fiji, but he is remaining positive.
"Just sheer optimism and a love of this country because elections will be the way forward for this country," he said.
Mr Qarase has already indicated he will run in the election.
