Fiji condemnation continues at Pacific forum
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The condemnation of Fiji continues, following the interim government's decision not to take part in talks with 15 other Pacific leaders at Niue.
Commodore Frank Bainimarama announced two days ago that he was boycotting the Pacific Islands Forum to concentrate on political issues at home.
He is now saying he was forced to commit to holding elections by March next year.
The chair of the Forum, Tongan Prime Minister Dr Feleti Sevele, told the crowd at the opening ceremony that Fiji's military-led government has made a lot of excuses.
"Unfortunately the relationship has deteriorated from the promising situation it was in Tonga to one that is disappointment and an uncertain future," he said.
"As forum leaders, we are very disappointed at the interim government's decision not to attend.
"He wasn't forced to set a date. He agreed to it. We are keen to help Fiji move forward but Fiji has to play it's due part."
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is in Niue for the forum, signing two development agreements with Papua New Guinea and Samoa.
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare thanked Australia for taking part in the seasonal workers scheme.
Mr Rudd listened intently from his seat on the stage.
Earlier he said Fiji had made a grave error by not coming.
"He hasn't just gone one step too far, he's gone many," Mr Rudd said.
New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark likened Commodore Bainimarama to Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe.
"This is like de ja vu with Zimbabwe," she said.
