6 Apr 2007

Fiji interim government announces another extension of state of emergency

10:28 am on 6 April 2007

The Fiji interim government has extended the state of emergency declared after the December military coup for a fourth time.

The latest extension was made by decree signed by the President Ratu Josefa Iloilo.

The Official Gazette says the 30-day extension was made after taking into account what was in the best interests of the people of Fiji.

The Emergency Regulations restrict a number of rights and freedoms granted in the constitution.

The military commander, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, declared emergency rule in December when he purported to be the president.

A month later, he quit that role and appointed himself the interim prime minister.