19 Jan 2009

Fiji suspension unlikely, says Samoan official

6:20 pm on 19 January 2009

A Samoan official says Fiji is unlikely to be suspended from the Pacific Islands Forum.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Prime Minister and Cabinet, Auseugaefa Va'asatia Poloma Komiti, has told the Weekend Observer that despite suggestions that some countries will be pushing for it, a suspension is unlikely.

Auseugaefa says the usual feeling among Forum member countries is that Fiji should calm down.

Under the Pacific Islands Forum Charter, Auseugaefa said he was unsure of the conditions under which a suspension is made possible.

Last year's Forum communique listed the suspension as an option in response to Fiji's refusal to hold elections.

A special Forum leaders meeting will be held in Papua New Guinea in a week to discuss the situation in Fiji.

The Fiji interim regime has ruled out an election this year and is yet to say when and under what conditions it plans to relinquish power.