The 1987 Military Coup in Fiji

Name: The 1987 Military Coup in Fiji
Start: 1945-05-21
Location: Unspecified

Understanding the 1987 Military Coup in Fiji

The 1987 Military Coup in Fiji marked a significant turning point in the nation’s history, dramatically altering its political landscape. Spearheaded by Colonel Sitivani Rabuka, this coup was rooted in longstanding ethnic tensions and political unrest that had plagued Fiji since the early 1980s. On May 14, 1987, Rabuka and his soldiers took control of the Fijian government, resulting in the initial overthrow of Prime Minister Timoci Bavadra.

The coup was not merely an isolated incident; it stemmed from the rising fears among the indigenous Fijian population about being politically outnumbered by the Indo-Fijian community. The coup's supporters justified their actions by claiming it was necessary to preserve the indigenous rights and the leadership role of Fijians in their own country.

Colonel Sitivani Rabuka's Role

Colonel Sitivani Rabuka emerged as a controversial figure during this tumultuous period. Before leading the coup, Rabuka was a senior officer in the Fijian military. His actions on that fateful day established him as a key player in Fijian politics, eventually leading him to become Prime Minister following further political instability.

The Aftermath of the Coup

The immediate aftermath of the coup saw widespread chaos. The military imposed strict control, and civil liberties were significantly restricted. Rabuka’s regime led to a new constitution that favored indigenous Fijians, causing further division and civil unrest within the nation.

The Second Coup: Revisiting Fijian Politics

Just a few months after the first coup, Fiji was rocked by a second coup in September 1987, also led by Colonel Rabuka. This subsequent action confirmed his control over Fijian politics and solidified the military's power in governmental affairs.

Long-Term Consequences

The consequences of the 1987 coups were profound and enduring. The military’s political influence continued to grow, leading to a series of further coups and a cycle of instability in the 1990s and 2000s. The socio-political fabric of Fiji remained disrupted for decades, as ethnic tensions persisted and ongoing debates around governance and representation arose.

International Reaction

The international community’s reaction to the 1987 coup was mixed, with various nations condemning the military takeover while others sought to engage diplomatically with the new regime. These geopolitical dynamics further complicated Fiji’s return to a stable democratic process.

Fun Fact

Colonel Rabuka’s Leadership Style

Interestingly, after his military career, Colonel Sitivani Rabuka transitioned into politics as a civilian, where he served as Prime Minister, showcasing how military leaders sometimes influence democratic governance.