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Canada wants 1997 Constitution back in Fiji
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Posted on Jan 04 2001
SUVA, Fiji — The Canadian Government says it favours a return of the 1997 Constitution in Fiji.
In a letter to the Canadian Federation of Fiji Organisations dated 21 December, the Canadian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. John Manley stated:
“Canada continues to follow closely the events as they unfold in Fiji. We note with interest the recent decision by Justice Gates, and the appeal lodged by the Interim Civilian Government. Since the May coup, Canada has maintained its call for the early return to constitutional democracy and favors a return to the 1997 Constitution.”
“As you are aware, it was the product of widespread consultation among all groups in Fiji, and was accepted unanimously by the Great Council of Chiefs and both houses of the National Assembly.”
“Canada remains very concerned about present government plans to write a constitution that will place further restrictions on citizens on the basis of race”.
The Minister also stated that Canada has taken actions to “ensure that those who participated in the overthrow of the government in Fiji will be prevented from entering Canada”.
The Canadian Federation of Fiji Organisations represent Vancouver’s Lower Mainland based Fiji organizations representing religious, socio-cultural, sporting, business and professional organisations.
