Qarase wins appeal

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Appeals Court rules in Qarase's favour
Thursday, April 09, 2009

Update: 3:41PM THE Fiji Court of Appeal has found in favour of ousted Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, who challenged the High Court's decision in regards to the President's reserve powers.

It essentially ruled that the interim Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama's government was unlawfully appointed and that the President needs to appoint a caretaker Prime Minister.

The State's lawyers applied for a stay on the decision but it was denied.
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and a few hours later Commodore Bainimarama spoke to the nation:

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No Govt, President to make decision soon
09/04/2009
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Fiji effectively has no Prime Minister, no ministers and no Government in place, says interim Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama.

Bainimarama made the comment moments ago in a national televised address.

He confirmed that the President Ratu Josefa Iloilo will soon make a decision following today’s Court of Appeal ruling that Laisenia Qarase’s dismissal from office was unlawful and that a caretaker PM be appointed.

Bainimarama confirmed he had visited the President this afternoon informing him of the court’s decision.

“I, as commander of the RFMF will ensure there is no disruption to law and order. I assure that no such behaviour shall be tolerated,” Bainimarama said.

He added that people should not be swayed by petty politics and opportunists who call themselves leaders.

“We need leaders with vision and foresight,” he added.

The Court of Appeal today ruled that Bainimarama’s appointment as interim PM on January 5, 2007 is unlawful under the Fiji Constitution.

It also declared as unlawful, Qarase’s dismissal from office and the appointment of Dr Jona Senilagakali as caretaker PM, and the order by Bainimarama that Parliament be dissolved.

Fijilive