Politicians form alliances in lead up to Fiji election

Fiji's deposed deputy prime minister, Dr Tupeni Baba has confirmed he will form a new political party ahead of the general election in August.

The New Labour Party will include members of the Fiji Labour Party (FLP) who are frustrated with deposed Prime Minister, Mahendra Chaudhry's style of leadership.

Some members are particularly unhappy with Mr Chaudhry's alleged bulldozing tactics.

Doctor Baba says the aims of a multi-racial labour party will be achieved by the new party.

The New Labour Party is expected to campaign as part of an alliance of moderate parties led by Adi Kuini Speed.

The moderates also include former Prime Minister and leader of two miliary coups in 1987, Sitiveni Rabuka, and Mick Beddoes of the General Voters Party.

Major Fijian parties say they will run a united election campaign.

They are Soqosoqo ni Vakavulewa ni Taukei (SVT), Veitokani ni Lewenivanua Va-Karisto (VLV), New Nationalist Party, Soqosoqo Duavata ni Lewenivanua (SDL), Nationalist Vanua Tako Lavo Party and a faction of the Fijian Association Party (FAP).

- FIJI VILLAGE NEWS