Fiji military chief returns to power

Fiji’s armed forces chief returned to power as this troubled country’s prime minister early today, a day after the president suspended the constitution and fired the judges who had declared the military leader’s government illegal.

President Ratu Josefa Iloilo also declared a 30-day state of emergency, limiting freedom of speech, expanding police powers and curbing news reporting.

The moves ensured that Commodore Frank Bainimarama retains control over this South Pacific country despite a court ruling Thursday that the 2006 coup in which he seized power -- and therefore his government -- was unlawful.

The turmoil marks the latest chapter in a long-running political crisis in the once idyllic country of 800,000 people, which has become increasingly unstable and poor after four coups in the last 20 years.

The changes have drawn international condemnation, with the United States calling for a return to democracy.

In a national address Friday, Iloilo announced that he had abrogated the constitution and revoked all judicial appointments, leaving him to rule by decree as part of what he called “the new order.”

Observers said the announcement by the aged and ailing Iloilo had the stamp of Bainimarama.

But shortly after being sworn in by Iloilo, Bainimarama maintained that he had not advised Iloilo to overturn the country’s constitution.

Fiji remained calm early today, with police checkpoints on key roads the only visible sign of the government crisis. Military spokesman Maj. Neumi Leweni said troops would assist police only to maintain law and order “when the need arises.”

Iloilo said he was forced into the action because the court decision created a power vacuum in the country. Under Fiji’s constitution, the president has a mostly ceremonial role, with power held by the elected prime minister and Cabinet.