MONITORING DESK
ISLAMABAD: Overjoyed Fijians took to the streets to fete the end of the 16-year rule of Frank Bainimarama on Tuesday. These events came after various poll opponents reached a deal to form a multiparty government.
The South Pacific nation’s next prime minister is set to be Sitiveni “Rambo” Rabuka who used to be a rugby and later became a coup leader; however, he is currently recognized as a democracy champion. Rabuka, after winning the support of a minor party has seats that are enough to add up to a majority in parliament.
Rabuka, in his victory speech after the hotly contested election on Wednesday, congratulated and thanked Fijians. He stated the voters voted for change.
Opposition parties vow to form accountable, caring government
Rabuka along with his coalition partners have promised to rejig democracy in Fiji and set up a government that is accountable, compassionate, and more caring. The outgoing government of Bainimarama is widely seen as a semi-authoritarian rule that lasted for a decade and a half.
Joy amongst Fijians is visible in some of the posts on Twitter:
Former naval commander Bainimarama through a coup in 2006 grabbed power. Later, in a bid to legitimize his rule, he held two elections and emerged victorious in both.
His government muzzled the media, silenced critics, and sidelined opponents through court cases.
The news about an alliance being formed among opposition parties was met with jubilation while supporters crying with joy celebrated outside Rabuka’s headquarters.
