23 Sep 2003

Fiji opposition leader has no response to mediation offer

6:13 pm on 23 September 2003

Fiji's opposition leader, Mick Beddoes, says he's yet to receive a positive response to his offer to mediate in the multi-party cabinet impasse.

He says the prime minister, Laisenia Qarase, and the Labour party leader, Mahendra Chaudhry are forming such hard line positions because their personalities are getting in the way.

And, he says pressure groups from both sides are ensuring those positions are maintained.

Mr Beddoes says the impasse needs to be broken.

"I think the bottom line is that somewhere and somehow, and sooner rather than later, the two have to come to the realisation that the whole country is being affected. Aid is not forthcoming because we are still unconstitutional in terms of our government set-up and it is important that we as quickly as possible in this area."

The matter is being taken to the Supreme court.