published 11 November 2000

The interim regime should take cognisance of recent High Court pronouncements that in the absence of any ruling to the contrary, the 1997 Constitution remains in place.

As such, the Qarase regime has no legitimacy. It is unconstitutional and has no authority to stay in power, collect taxes, disburse public funds and make, amend or revoke legislations. Nor does it have the right to receive salaries, allowances and other privileges from the public purse.

Indeed, the interim ministers are usurpers of power. By continuing to hold office illegally, they are no different from those responsible for the overthrow of the democratically elected government.

Instead of threatening violence to remain in office, Mr. Qarase and his cabinet should do the proper thing and step down from office.

It the more than 3 months of its illegal rule, the Qarase regime has failed to provide stability in the country as evidenced by continuing unrest and the worrying law and order situation.

Fiji is now more unstable and fragmented than ever before.

The regime's actions have caused a serious rift within the Fijian society. It's discriminatory policies against the Indian community has left them feeling marginalised and frustrated.

The regime's lack of concern for the plight of the poor has swelled the ranks of those living in poverty as seen in the increasing number of people who now beg in our streets.

The interim ministers' only achievement so far is to take good care of themselves through pay hikes, purchase of luxury vehicles an din ensuring their own personal safety and security at State expense.

END
11 November
People's Coalition Office
Suva
Fax: 380985.