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Issue No: 897; 29 June 2001
The Fiji Chapter of the Transparency International has said that there is nothing wrong with the Qarase regime using public funds for political campaigns. The Transparency International (TI) is reputed to be an international watchdog on corruption. The TI's Fiji head, Iqbal Jannif was quoted by the Radio Fiji this morning as saying that until there were specific laws on campaign funds, there was nothing wrong with Qarase using public funds to campaign and gather votes for the next election. Jannif's comments come in light of revelations that Qarase has been squandering public funds and has been using state funds and resources to launch his political party and campaign for the next elections. Jannif was appointed to head the Transparency International 3 years ago. His disdain for the People's Coalition Government is well known. Jannif is also close to Qarase, and was picked by Qarase as one of his Cabinet ministers in July 2000. He was pressured into not accepting the position for fear of reprisal against him by those supporting democracy. Jannif's comments are contrary to the principles of good
governance. It is not known whether Jannif was presenting the views of the
Transparency International as an organization, or as his personal view disguised
as TI's views. It is believed that Jannif made the statement on signals from
Qarase. |
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People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands |
