Coalition for Democracy in Fiji - Blue Ribbon Campaign

14 June 2000

The Auckland-based Coalition for Democracy in Fiji (CDF) has launched a blue ribbon campaign in Auckland.

In Fiji, opponents of coup leader George Speight and his gunmen are wearing Pacific blue ribbons on their lapels. The ribbons express their support for democracy and their call for the release of the hostages.

CDF spokesperson Maire Leadbeater said, "Those who wear the blue ribbons in Suva run the personal risk of falling foul of Speight's men. Here we are free so this is the least we can do to show our concern and our solidarity with the suffering people in Fiji."

"George Speight and his backers are holding the whole country hostage. As the crisis deepens, those most harshly affected will be the poor. The ribbon wearing campaign is an expression of the popular will of the people, and it is an assurance that the vision of a multi-racial democracy in Fiji has not been forgotten."

"In 1998 when the Chinese were being persecuted under Suharto's regime in Indonesia, a similar yellow ribbon wearing campaign caught on around the world. "

"Symbolic gestures do make a difference - wear your blue ribbon for the people of Fiji.

The Coalition for Democracy in Fiji, a group made up of former Fiji residents, political activists, trade union delegates, non-government organisations, and concerned New Zealanders, has been active since 1987 in support of the fight for the rights of Fiji people and Fiji democracy.

Ribbons are available from Trade Aid Shop on K’Rd, Kingsland Computers in Kingsland and Green Bay Four Square in Green Bay, Auckland.

For more information, please contact Maire Leadbeater on telephone 025-436957, 376 9098 and/or Nik Naidu on 021-2559955.

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