Foreign 'horror' at Fiji coup attempt

Seven armed men invaded the parliament in Suva

Foreign governments and the Commonwealth have strongly criticised the attempted coup in Fiji.

Australia and New Zealand called for the immediate release of hostages - including Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudry - who were captured when armed men stormed the parliament.

We urge all Fijians to support the constitution and oppose and reject the actions of those who have tried to subvert the democratic process.

New Zealand Foreign Minister, Phil Goff

Australian Prime Minister John Howard condemned the attempted saying: "I'm horrified that such an act should be carried out against a democratically elected leader and a fellow Commonwealth prime minister."

New Zealand Foreign Minister Phil Goff also attacked the plotters: "The use of armed force to attempt to overthrow a democratically elected government is utterly unacceptable to New Zealand and other members of the international community.

"We urge all Fijians to support the constitution and oppose and reject the actions of those who have tried to subvert the democratic process."

Dismay in Delhi

The US Embassy in Suva also condemned the attempted coup, saying that "the consequences of any unconstitutional seizure of power would be very substantial".

I certainly would wish that the police and army stay onside with the elected government

Don McKinnon
Commonwealth Secretary-General

A statement by the Indian Foreign Ministry said Delhi was dismayed at reports of the coup and called for the immediate restoration of the elected government.

British Foreign Secretary Robin Cook called for the immediate release of Prime Minister Chaudry and his ministers.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon told the BBC that he had pledged backing to President Ratu Mara.

"I offered him total Commonwealth support and supported his action to call a state of emergency, and certainly would wish that the police and army stay onside with the elected government." he said.