I don't talk politics much these days but...

from w
Here are a few bits I read today from the media:

CCF holds forum

Tevita Vuibau
Wednesday, August 01, 2012

Local academics, former politicians and human rights activists gathered at the Holiday Inn last week to take part in the Citizens Constitutional Forum titled "Bringing Fiji Together-Addressing Inclusivity in Constitution Making". Notable speakers at the event included former vice-president Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi, Prof Vijay Naidu and the University of the South Pacific Dean of the School of Economics Dr Biman Prasad. Other speakers at the event included Dr Wadan Narsey and Virisila Buadromo.

JUST IN FROM PRIME MINISTER LAISENIA QARASE - Thursday 2.08.12
Dear Friends and Well wishers
I wish to express to you all my deepest appreciation of your tremendous support, encouragement and best wishes during my High Court trial.
The sentencing by the Court will be delivered tomorrow, 3rd August, 2012. Whatever the court decision I thank God for his blessings upon all of us and for your support.
I also wish to thank the many prayer groups, individuals, and families, both in Fiji and abroad, who have been praying for me, my family and for Fiji during this difficult period.
God Bless you all and God Bless Fiji. Vinaka Vakalevu.
Laisenia Qarase

'He's always polite, patient'

Nasik Swami
Thursday, August 02, 2012

FORMER prime minister Laisenia Qarase was hailed as a man of respect and professionalism by Bau chief Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi.

A character witness in the case, the country's former vice president Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi said Qarase was always polite, respectful and professional.

He said when he was the vice-president from January 2005 to December 2006, he used to meet Qarase together with the president every fortnightly to relay matters of national interest.

"At all times, Qarase was polite, respectful and patient even if when they disagreed on some matters," Ratu Joni said.

He gave examples to the court of Qarase's involvement in the reconciliation, tolerance and promotion of Unity Bill, Qoliqoli bill and he always remained polite and engaged.

Ratu Joni said Qarase remained polite and professional even when they had differing views on the Reconciliation and Qoliqoli bills.

"Mr Qarase was the prime minister for the country for six years and was a public figure, secretary for the Public Service and managing director for Fiji Development Bank, which showed the character of the man," he said.

Ratu Joni also claimed that he saw Qarase's conviction as a humiliation to his reputation.