Fiji seeks return of army head

Fiji's President Frank Bainimarama. Photo / File

An extradition order is believed to have been filed with Tonga by Fiji, which is seeking the return of its former military chief.

Fiji's Solicitor General Christopher Pryde has insisted Ratu Tevita Mara needs to return to Fiji to face charges of sedition, and says he will receive a fair trial.

The former Lieutenant Colonel has been sheltering in Tonga since fleeing there last week.

Mr Pryde told 3News there is "no evidence whatsoever" to suggest that Mara will not receive get a fair trial.

The network this morning reported an extradition order for Lieutenant Colonel Mara has now been filed.

"He was given bail by the court in the first place, he needs to come back and answer for the charges he's facing."

Prime Minister John Key told 3News' Firstline programme this morning there were a number of factors involved, but it was possible Mr Mara could come to New Zealand.

He said the tension was not between Fiji and Tonga, rather between those who support the regime and those who don't support the regime now.

"My sense is that obviously there is going to be frustration on Fijian side that one of their major lieutenants has jumped ship and left the regime."

Meanwhile, a New Zealand businessman who has been questioned by Fijian authorities following Mr Mara's defection has reportedly been deported from Fiji.

The Coup Four and a Half website said former Fiji Water Authority head Anthony Fullman, a friend of Mr Mara, was being deported last night.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it is monitoring the situation closely and is in contact with Mr Fullman.

A spokeswoman said the ministry cannot confirm whether a deportation order has been served or not.

- Herald online, Newstalk ZB