SUVA, Fiji (7 June 2000) -- Commonwealth ministers representing 54 nations meeting in London have partially suspended Fiji and called for the immediate and unconditional release of Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and 30 other hostages. Rebel leader George Speight remained defiant. "This is a local issue that only Fijians can resolve," he said. Support for Speight is weakening as Fijians realize the cost of the coup. Fiji's tourist industry is on the verge of collapse, sugar exports are down and Fijians have been barred from participating in international sporting events. Australia, New Zealand, the US and other countries say they will impose sanctions after the hostages are released if Fiji does not return to democracy. © CDNN - CYBER DIVER NEWS NETWORK | | Racist rebel leader George Speight: "We will not be deterred by multiculturalism" |
