In praise of the government

INFORMATION Minister Ratu Inoke Kubuabola answered questions submitted to his office by Pacific Islands Monthly. Extracts: What influence has the Army played in the running of the country?

The Commander of the Fiji Military Forces has stated that the prime responsibility of the army is to guarantee the security of the nation, and this the army continues to do effectively. The

army has therefore played no role in the running of the government.

Is the new constitution the best answer now or in the future?

Before the promulgation of the consti tution, every opportunity was given to all citizens of Fiji to express their views on it. A fully representative multi-racial committee was appointed to consider the views of the people and make recommendations according to Gov ernment.

The constitution as it now stands was

unanimously agreed to by the Great Council of Chiefs and fully considered by the Cabinet before its promulgation by the Piesident. It is my firm belief that the new constitution provides the basis for peace and our return to parliamentary government and stability.

The new Constitution promotes the aspirations of the Fijian people by guaranteeing their rights and future, while at the same time guaranteeing and protecting the rights and interests

of the other races living in Fiji. The new constitution is the best instrument to achieve peaceful co-existence in this country, an instrument which we can look at again in seven years.

Will the Indians accept Fiji’s new constitution?

This is a matter for the Indians to decide, but I do believe that the majority are willing to give it a chance to work.

Assess the leadership of the interim government The achievements of the interim government under the leadership of the Right Honourable the Prime Minister, Ratu

Sir Kamisese Mara, I think speak for themselves. I believe that the success of the government cannot be attributed to any one person but a co-operative effort of not only the ministers but the civil servants, the business sectors and the public at large who have supported the interim government in its objectives.

The government has provided the incentive for greater investment resulting in a more buoyant economy.

Are the indigenous Fijians better off politically and

economically?

The recent political changes in the country cannot with a “sweep of a broom” satisfy the political aspirations and ambitions of all indigenous people. However, the provision

of the constitution is seen as a major step forward in achieving their inalienable rights of self determination.

To bring Fijians into the mainstream of economic indepen dence, the government introduced a nine-point plan to assist them. Many Fijians have taken advantage of this programme including loans to assist them in setting up business ventures.

I would say that many Fijians today are forward thinking and appear to be doing well in a number of business enterprises which hitherto were dominated by other races.

Talat Mehmood

Ratu Inoke in Suva