Suspension of Fiji's Constitution in 1987

Name: Suspension of Fiji's Constitution in 1987
Start: 1954-10-01
Location: Unspecified

The 1987 Constitutional Crisis in Fiji

Fiji's Constitution and Political Landscape

In 1987, the political climate in Fiji was tense as ethnic divisions and political struggles intensified. The newly established constitution, which intended to create a balance between indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians, faced severe scrutiny. This reflected the ongoing struggle for power and representation in a nation characterized by its diverse populace.

The Military Coup and Suspension of the Constitution

On May 14, 1987, a military coup led by Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka resulted in the suspension of Fiji's constitution. Rabuka was disillusioned with the electoral results, which favored the Indo-Fijian population. As a result, he enacted a swift and decisive action to restore his vision of governance in Fiji, disrupting the democratic process.

Impact and Aftermath of the Suspension

Political Turmoil and Change

The suspension of the constitution plunged Fiji into political turmoil. A peaceful transition was replaced by military rule, resulting in widespread protests from various political factions. The country found itself at a crossroads that would redefine its political landscape for decades.

International Response to Fiji's Crisis

International response to the military coup was mixed. Many nations condemned the actions of Rabuka, asserting the importance of democracy and constitutional governance. However, others recognized the necessity of stability in such a volatile environment, leading to a complex interplay of global diplomatic relations.

Fun Fact

A Historic Shift in Leadership

The 1987 coup led to Rabuka's eventual rise to the position of Prime Minister, who would later play a significant role in Fiji's return to democratic governance.