Subject: 'austraLasia' #342

FIJI: NO PEACE IN PARADISE (1)

Crisis continues; schools closed

Julian Fox

SUVA: 22nd May -- Some interesting lessons into the Fijian psyche are being learnt as the coup crisis continues. The situation may not be resolved through force initiated by the 'discipline' forces, as the President, Ratu Sir Kamese Mara calls them. The stand-off with the hostage-takers only merits the word 'delay' in a non-Pacific context. Instead, a meeting of the Great Council of Chiefs called for tomorrow (Tuesday)will be used to bring about an end to the crisis. As many of these chiefs have to come from isolated parts of the nation - from islands up to 400 kms from the capital, Suva - it has taken several days to organize this crucial meeting. The chiefs themselves appear divided over the coup. Meanwhile the nation is under a decreed State of Emergency which gives powers to police and army to control and arrest citizens on suspicion of activities contrary to the 'matanitu' (the country as a political being), and Suva is under dusk to dawn curfew. It has not been possible today to do any business in the city, including banking. Buses have not been running and fuel and food have been scarce. There is however a promise of return to work tomorrow, to relieve some of these practical matters.

Schools and the University of the South Pacific in Suva are closed indefinitely. The reason for the closure is the fear that violence may still break out since the issues underlying the coup attempt, particularly doubts about the rights of the indigenous people under the constitution, and racial tension, are unresolved. The one tangible emotion in a city now trying to return to normal, is fear. And as usual it is the kids who feel it most.