Fiji's ethnic Indians live in fear

Fiji's ethnic Indians live in fear

Ever since the May 19th coup against democratically elected government of Mahendra Chaudhry, there has been growing uncertainty and fear for the Indian community in Fiji. Recent events have further exacerbated the situation with George Speight the coup leader overtly spreading hatred against Indians. He rejected the new cabinet even though there is only one ethnic Indian in it. Media reports indicate that other Indian leaders did not accept offers to be included in the cabinet fearing safety of their families. During the past week, around 100 ethnic Indians have been forced to flee from a village near the Fijian capital Suva. The Fiji Times reports that nationalist supporters of George Speight have torched Indian properties, stolen cars, slaughtered livestock, and robbed Indians at knifepoint.
Even though there has been universal condemnation from all countries against the coup there has been little done to restore democracy or instill confidence in the Indian community.