EU wants elections in Fiji before February next year

The European Commissioner for Development Cooperation Louis Michel welcomed the assessment of the EU Troika Mission which visited Fiji last month. But Mr Michel expressed concern at the absence of democratic rule and at the vulnerability of the rule of law and respect for human rights. "I can never condone a military takeover" said Mr Michel. He said the onus was on the interim Government to meet its commitments and hold elections before February. He confirmed that the EU will deliver its assistance program once these commitments were met.
However, he said, there were concerns that the elections timetable could change.
Mr Michel commented that the mission was able to pursue a "constructive if at times difficult dialogue" with the interim Government and key political actors. He was particularly pleased that all political stakeholders availed themselves for the political dialogue which was facilitated by Commonwealth Special Envoy, Sir Paul Reeves.