Fijian Coup: Bavadra Ousted by Rabuka

May 14th, 1987

May 14th, 1987

Fijian Coup: Bavadra Ousted by Rabuka
How Long Ago?

37 years, 10 months, 1 day ago

Location

Suva, Fiji

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Timoci Bavadra
  • Sitiveni Rabuka
Links & References
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Fijian Coup: Bavadra Ousted by Rabuka

Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka seized control of Fiji's government, ousting Prime Minister Timoci Bavadra. The coup followed mounting tensions over ethnic and political divisions within the island nation. The military intervention was marked by swift action, with Rabuka and his troops effectively taking power within hours.

Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka led the coup.

The coup was swift, gaining control in hours.

Ethnic tensions were a major catalyst for the coup.

Bavadra's government was seen as favoring Indian Fijians.

What Happened?

The coup d'état that led to the ousting of Fijian Prime Minister Timoci Bavadra was orchestrated by Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka. This event was significant as it represented a major upheaval in Fiji's political landscape, occurring within a climate of ethnic tension and economic struggle. The Bavadra government, which had come to power after the elections in 1987, faced challenges related to the growing dissatisfaction of the indigenous Fijian population regarding economic policies that they felt marginalized their interests. Concerns over political stability escalated, creating fertile ground for military intervention. Rabuka's coup was characterized by its speed, with troops swiftly taking key government buildings and securing control over the capital, Suva.After the coup, Rabuka declared a state of emergency and suspended the constitution, arguing that the coup was necessary to prevent widespread ethnic conflict. The military's justification for the coup was rooted in their perception that Bavadra's government was failing to address the concerns of indigenous Fijians and was leaning too much towards the Indian Fijian population. Rabuka's actions not only led to his assumption of power but marked the beginning of a series of military-led governments in Fiji that would have a lasting influence on the country’s governance and social fabric for years to come.

Why Does it Matter?

The ousting of Timoci Bavadra is interesting as it marked the beginning of significant ethnic and political tensions in Fiji, reshaping the nation's governance for decades. The coup led to a series of political changes and military interventions that highlighted the ethnic divisions within Fijian society. Rabuka's regime, followed by subsequent political events, set the stage for future coups and a complex political history in Fiji, impacting its relationships both regionally and globally.

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