Speight rejects interim leaders

11:50 AM - HERALD ONLINE STAFF

Military officers have been named to the top two offices in Fiji, but coup leader George Speight appears unlikely to approve either appointment.

The commander of the Fiji military force, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, declared martial law on Monday and, according to Radio Australia, has taken the position of president.

Last night Commodore Bainimarama announced the appointment of a former army commander, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, as interim prime minister.

Ratu Nailatikau is the son-in-law of side-lined president Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara. His wife, Adi Koila Mara Nailatikau, was tourism minister in the elected government overthrown by Speight. She is among some 30 hostages being held by Speight's rebels inside the parliamentary complex in Suva.

George Speight has previously called for Commodore Bainimarama to resign. Radio Australia says he has also declared that he does not accept Ratu Nailatikau as prime minister.

Commodore Bainimarama says the military has agreed to all of Speight's demands, including: removal of the elected government, abrogation of the 1997 constitution, and amnesty for Speight and his supporters.

The rebels have released one of their hostages, believed to be Adi Ema Tagicakibau, an assistant minister in the Prime Minister's office.

She has been allowed to attend her sister's funeral, but has been told she must rejoin the other hostages after the funeral.

More Fiji coup coverage

Under seige: map of the Parliament complex