Coup 'rapes constitution'

Soldiers force back the media as a truckload of around 30 soldiers arrived and cleared a large group of journalists and onlookers in front of the residence of Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, blocking the view of the house where the premier was meeting with key cabinet ministers in Suva yesterday. PHOTO: AFP

Speaking to reporters after military commander, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama, had announced the military was taking control of the government, Qarase said the new military regime was "illegal and unconstitutional", according to Fijilive Internet news service.

"What the military commander has done is that he has raped the constitution and we have become the laughing stock of the world," Qarase said.

"They (military) have bought shame to the country. It is a national embarrassment."

Qarase appealed to Fijians to stand up and "fight for our democracy" through peaceful means.