10 Aug 2007

Fiji trade unionist decides not to launch legal action against military

9:53 am on 10 August 2007

A Fiji trade unionist who alleged abuse and a threat to his life at the hands of the military says he will not lodge a complaint with the police.

Taniela Tabu had earlier told overseas media that he would lodge a police complaint this week following the end of a strike by members of his Viti National Union of Taukei Workers.

Mr Tabu has now told Radio Legend that he will not file any complaint against the military.

Mr Tabu says the commander of the Third Battalion, Lt Col Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara, is the son of his high chief and he does not want to strain that traditional link.

He says his clan members are the traditional warriors of the Mara chiefly family and closely related through such traditional ties which should be kept intact.

Mr Tabu says he now wants to put the matter behind him.

Lt Col Mara maintains Mr Tabu was taken in for questioning and then referred to police.

He says Mr Tabu was not mistreated as earlier claimed and he never spoke to Mr Tabu while he was at the army camp.