Arrest warrant for Fiji coup leader

George Speight may escape prosecution for the coup in Fiji but he is still facing the law for dangerous driving.

A warrant has been issued for his arrest on driving charges after he failed to appear in court when holed up in Parliament during the hostage crisis.

The coup leader - whose men stormed Parliament on May 19 and precipitated a two-month crisis, destroying the multiracial constitution and bringing down the Government of Fiji Indian Mahendra Chaudhry - will be issued with a fresh warrant this week.

Speight is also due to appear in court on charges related to the financial dealings of an insurance company he used to work for, which collapsed owing investors in Fiji and Australia millions of dollars.

He has been granted immunity from prosecution for treason over the coup.

But the immunity is not valid until his supporters surrender all the weapons used in the uprising, which has not yet happened.

Speight yesterday was furious at the new Government named by Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase.

There was no place for Speight and the announcement was done without consulting him.

The Administration includes one active Speight supporter and a number of sympathisers but also contains an Indian minister outside the cabinet.

"They are treading on some dangerous ground. It will result in a backlash," Speight said.

New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark slammed the inclusion of coup supporters.

"How much is enough for Mr Speight?

"He has trashed Fiji's democratically elected Government and its constitution, and has secured ministerial portfolios for his supporters."

New Zealand has recalled its High Commissioner to Fiji for consultations and the Government said it would considered further actions this morning.

Australia will also recall its High Commissioner and stop most non-humanitarian aid.

Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said joint military exercises would be suspended and Fiji national sporting teams would be banned.

Fiji would still be allowed to compete at the Sydney Olympics.