-
Fiji perform the Cibi - Source: Photosport -
Related
New Zealand's peak union body is capitalising on a Fijian Rugby World Cup game to protest the Pacific nation's failure to return to democracy.
The Council of Trade Unions has urged fans going to the Fiji-South Africa game in Wellington on Saturday to wear a white armband "to support a democratic Fiji".
Fiji's military regime has been ousted from the Pacific Islands Forum and heavily sanctioned by New Zealand and Australia for failing to hold elections since staging a 2006 coup.
Human rights groups worldwide have protested emergency regulations in the country that strip away civil and trade union rights, restrict media, ban many church activities and undermine individual freedom.
CTU secretary Peter Conway said it is time to take action.
"Trade unionists have been assaulted, harassed and arrested simply for doing their job," Conway said.
"We're calling for a return to democracy and a reversal of these draconian laws, and asking rugby supporters to show their support for this by wearing an armband at the game."
The regime remains on the outer after a forum meeting in Auckland last week ruled that the 2009 suspension from the group should remain in place.
Several organisations, including International Labour Organisation and Amnesty International, have criticised the leadership in recent weeks for alleged violence and intimidation of union and church officials.
Self-appointed Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama has thumbed his nose at the condemnation. However, sanctions that ban Fijians with connections to the regime or the military continue to frustrate the government.
The head of Fiji's Rugby Federation Board, Lieutenant Colonel Mosese Tikoitoga, was denied entry to New Zealand for the tournament and a key player, lock Leone Nakarawa, was granted permission only after quitting his military job.
IRB chief executive Mike Miller said in June he hoped New Zealand would change its stance and allow Fiji to field its best team.
Latest NZ News Video
-
ONE News Minute 9am update: May 26 (1:00)
-
Kids cough up $14m for Government (1:50)
-
Education ministry 'barbaric' (1:55)
