Fiji: UN fact-finding mission on post-coup situation finishes work

The United Nations fact-finding mission dispatched to Fiji to assess the political and electoral situation in the Pacific island nation in the wake of the coup d’état last December wrapped up its work today.

UN spokesperson Michele Montas told journalists that the inter-agency mission held a wide range of talks with various interlocutors while in Fiji, with discussions focusing on elections, human rights, the rule of law and the restoration of democracy, peace and stability.

Led by Jehangir Khan of the UN Department of Political Affairs, the mission included electoral and political experts, as well as representatives from the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon dispatched the team last week in response to a Security Council call for the restoration of democracy and a peaceful resolution of political tensions.

The mission will submit confidential recommendations to Mr. Ban when it returns, Ms. Montas said, adding that report would form the basis of continued consultations between the UN and Fiji.

The trip took place after the Council, Mr. Ban and other UN officials condemned the military coup on 5 December last year and urged that a peaceful restoration of the democratically elected Government take place as soon as possible. Fiji has had four coups since 1987.