NZ says Fiji lacks mandate for new charter
Updated
New Zealand says Fiji's military led government lacks a mandate to introduce any of the reforms outlined in a "People's Charter".
The draft charter was produced by a council, headed by Fiji's coup leader and interim prime minister Frank Bainimarama.
It was released this week for national debate.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters, says the government in Suva needs to explain how it can introduce such a change without recalling parliament.
There's also been criticism from Fiji's ousted prime minister Laisenia Qarase.
He says the People's Charter will do nothing to end the country's coup culture, and will marginalise Fiji's indigenous community.
