Democracy is alive in the country - PM

Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama says democracy is alive in the country.

While responding to a question from SODELPA MP Mosese Bulitavu on why the government wants to change the flag and how it will benefit the people of Fiji, Bainimarama said that he has been going around the country informing the people that Fiji needs a new flag that truly represents the country and her people now and into the future.

He says majority of the people who he has spoken to support the change of the Fiji flag.

Opposition parliamentarians had their flags on their table and Opposition Leader, Ro Teimumu Kepa had also said earlier in the day that she is wearing a black ribbon as she believes that democracy is dying in the country.

Bainimarama says he was wondering why they are resorting to these actions and statements.

Opposition Whip, Ratu Isoa Tikoca says people are saying otherwise and the current flag should be included as an option.

Bainimarama says he has already given an explanation.

Opposition Leader, Ro Teimumu Kepa then asked the Prime Minister to have a referendum on the flag.

Bainimarama answered her question with another question.

  The Prime Minister says the government is in the process of giving the Fijian people a flag that truly showcases who we are as a country.

He says they have extended the deadline for new flag design submissions to the 29th of February due to the overwhelming number of responses that have been received.

In March, the government will put forward five designs and consult with the public, before declaring the new flag on Constitution Day, the 7th of September.