Governments tell traveller to seriously reconsider travelling to Fiji

With fears of an imminent coup in Fiji rising sharply over the weekend both Australia and New Zealand upgraded their travel advisories saying that there is high risk to security in Suva and an increasing risk in Fiji, recommending against non-essential travel to Fiji at this time.

NZ Foreign Minister Winston Peters met with Fiji’s military Commander Frank Bainimarama over the weekend with a spokesman for Mr Peters saying that there may be another meeting with the Commander before he returns home, possibly tomorrow.  The Minister would made no public statement about what was said at that meeting.

Fiji’s Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase is appealing to the country to uphold the law while threatening coup plotters that they are not above the law.  In a statement Mr Qarase this morning appealed for the people to rally together, saying that  “The rule of law must prevail,”.

He asked citizens to unite in support of our Constitution, Parliamentary democracy, the Parliamentary processes and good governance, adding, “Those who have been backing the stand of the army must surely reconsider their position in the light of the army’s demands for the Government to interfere with Police investigations”.  “This would be illegal”.  “The Government will not be a party to breaking the law.”

Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said last Thursday “there is clear evidence the Commander is planning a coup in the next couple of weeks”.

DFAT’s advice in Australia issued this morning says: –

The overall level of the advice has increased.

Summary

We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Fiji at this time due to the increasingly volatile security situation.  There are ongoing tensions between the Fiji Government and the Fiji Military Forces and the possibility of a military coup against the Government.  The security situation could deteriorate without warning.  If you are in the capital Suva and concerned for your safety, you should consider leaving.

On 21 November, the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces announced on local radio a renewed ultimatum to the Government of Fiji to meet a list of demands within two weeks (that is by early December), or the military would take action.

Political tensions could lead to mob violence and civil disorder. You should avoid demonstrations, street rallies and public gatherings as such events could become catalysts for civil disorder. You should also avoid prominent Government buildings, such as the National Parliament, as well as all military installations and concentrations of military personnel.

Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media and other local information sources for information about possible new safety or security risks. You should follow the instructions of security personnel.

Because of the uncertain security situation, we strongly recommend that you register your travel and contact details with us, so we can contact you in an emergency.

Be a smart traveller. Before heading overseas: organise comprehensive travel insurance and check what circumstances and activities are not covered by your policy subscribe to this travel advice to receive free email updates each time it’s reissued.

Report by The Mole