FIJI: Growing disquiet over Bainimarama's Council takeover
Updated
There is growing disquiet in Fiji over Interim Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama's decision to secretly appoint himself chair of the country's Great Council of Chiefs. Before the 2006 coup the GCC had the authority to approve or veto government policy on indigenous issues, and to appoint the country's president and vice-president. It remains one of Fiji's most highly respected institutions. Commodore Bainimarama's decision to appoint himself chairman, and give himself the power to appoint new members, is seen as insulting by many Fijians. Amongst them are high-ranking chiefs and other civil leaders, who've publicly questioned the Commodore's motives.
Presenter: Pacific Correspondent Campbell Cooney
Speakers: Fiji analyst Dr Brij Lal from the Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
