Fiji Power Struggle
p. 17 · Read in the full issue
Whatever the outcome of the Fiji general elections, with the votes now being counted, the country will not have a coalition government. Prime Minister Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, faced with the possible loss of his Alliance Party’s absolute majority, rejected a suggestion to form a coalition with either the National Federation Party or the new Fijian Nationalist Party.
It is extremely doubtful that the Indian-dominated NFP will win the election, in spite of internal quarrels in the Alliance Party which could cost it votes. The Alliance Party is more likely to lose votes to the FNP, led by Mr Sakiasi Butadroka who is fiercely anti-Indian. His main strength is in the Rewa area. The FNP could pick up enough seats to give it the balance of power. Mr Butadroka was ousted from the Alliance Party a few years ago.
The polling dates were March 19 to April 2. The outcome should be apparent on April 3, but there will still be seats in the outlying areas where the results will not be known till all votes are in. Fiji does not go in for progressive counting. All votes have to be with the electorate returning officers before the ballot boxes are opened.