Fiji: Protests possible nationwide after opposition leader suspended from parliament Feb. 17.

Event

As of Feb. 18, protests are possible nationwide after the country's legislature voted Feb. 17 to suspend opposition leader and former prime minister Frank Bainimarama from parliament for three years. The action was taken after Bainimarama made a controversial speech in parliament in which he criticized Fiji's president, incumbent prime minister Sitiveni Rabuka, and the legislature itself. Although no actions have been confirmed as of writing, supporters of Bainimarama's FijiFirst party could call for protests in the coming days.

Any actions that do occur could draw hundreds of participants, especially in the capital Suva and in opposition strongholds. Likely protest venues include outside election offices, government, and court buildings, or local political party offices. Localized traffic disruptions are probable in the event of large demonstrations, or if protesters conduct mass marches or block local or intercity routes. Authorities will likely deploy security personnel to monitor related gatherings. Clashes between security forces and demonstrators or between rival political groups cannot be ruled out during any action.

Context

Bainimarama had been prime minister of Fiji since 2007, after leading a coup in 2006. However, following the December 2022 general election, a coalition of parties voted together to install Rabuka as prime minister, ending Bainimarama's 15-year-long rule.

Advice

Exercise caution around election offices, government and court buildings, political party offices, and other likely protest sites. Monitor local media or check with trusted local sources for updates on possible demonstrations and associated disruptions, as events could take place with no or little warning. Avoid any protests that may materialize following the vote due to the potential for clashes.