Fiji coup

The coup has taken place. It has been bloodless so far. Hopefully it will stay that way. The US has reacted by cutting aid funds to Fiji. I hope Bainimarama has a plan that will benefit the Fijian people. I don't really think what he is doing will do the country any good. Australia has also strongly condemned the coup and Alexander Downer calls it "a tragic day for Fiji and for the region"

The following is taken from a press release from Alexander Downer, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Australia. For the full text visit:

http://www.foreignminister.gov.au/releases/2006/fa135_06.html

"I strongly condemn the Fiji military’s unconstitutional removal of the Government of Prime Minister Qarase.

This is a tragic day for Fiji and for the region. In overthrowing the democratically elected Government of Fiji, Commodore Bainimarama has shown his contempt for the constitution and for the rule of law, for the people of Fiji and Fiji’s traditional institutions, and for the weight of international opinion. His takeover of the government is completely unconstitutional and illegal, and cannot be justified on any grounds. His statements to the contrary are wrong. The Fiji economy, already affected by the military’s actions, will be badly damaged, and the people of Fiji will suffer even more."

Despite all this I heard today that there are actually flights going into Fiji that are full. I have not had this confirmed however my source at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said that people are finding really cheap travel packages and are not afraid to take advantage of the situation. Maybe if I have time I will do some research into this.

Robert

Fiji - soldiers move on police tactical response hq

News in from Fiji is that soldiers have moved to take over the police tactical response unit. This unit has control of the police weaponry and also is responsible for the protection of the Prime Minister.

Is this just the beginning of the coup or are the army trying to force the hand of the Prime Minister. Only time will tell.

Travel Registration

If you are going to a foreign country on vacation you should seriously consider registering your trip details with your government. This helps the local embassy or consulate contact you if a situation arises where you need to be contacted in a hurry. For example someone back home may be sick and you need to get back urgently to see them. Or if there is a political situation like they are currently experiencing in Fiji you may need to be evacuated. If you have registered your embassy will contact with evacuation details. Another thing to mention is the need to keep an eye on the travel advice published on various government websites.

Speaking of Fiji the word in the press is that the army will take control of the country tomorrow morning. If this does happen it is a set back for the country as already tourist numbers are down due to the talk of a coup. It is a shame for the people of Fiji. Exactly one year today my family and I flew into Fiji for a holiday after we were able to find a cheap flight. The Fijian people are very friendly and we thoroughly enjoyed our time in Fiji. Our only regret was that we did not stay for a longer period.

Fiji - to visit or not?

News just in from Fiji is that an Australian Navy helicopter has crashed off the coast of Fiji. Early reports say 1 person has been killed with another missing. Another tragic loss for the Navy.

Crisis talks between military commander Commodore Frank Bainimarama and Fiji PM Laisenia Qarase have ended without a resolution to the ongoing crisis in Fiji. This does little to ease tension in the country. It also makes it difficult for thousands of tourists that may have booked holidays to Fiji. If you are flying into Nadi and then holidaying away from Suva it is probably safe to continue with travel plans.

The Australian Government is still worried about the situation as they are likely to evacuate families of diplomatic staff posted in Suva. Is this an overreaction or do they have inside information about the events that will unfold in the coming days.

Remember when travelling it is a good idea to check the government websites that provide travel advice. Links to the major countries that offer this advice can be found here.