Fijian Government denies it has resigned

Fiji's military-backed interim Government says it remains in control of the country and denies reports it had resigned.

National television and other local media reported that the cabinet had stepped down, but a government spokeswoman said that President Rate Josefa Iloilo rejected the resignations.

The Court of Appeal last week declared the Government illegal and said the President must recall parliament and resign by March 15. The military put the interim Government in power after nationalist gunmen tried to seize power last May.

"The Government had offered to resign to the President earlier in the week but the President asked them to stay on until after the Great Council of Chiefs meeting, after all they were appointed by the Great Council of Chiefs, so they have not resigned yet," Ministry of Information spokeswoman Waqa Varea said.

The confusion surrounding the resignation reports is symptomatic of widespread uncertainty in Fiji as it awaits the outcome of the traditional tribal chiefs meeting, which began on Thursday and may take up to two days.

The 51-member council comprises three chiefs from each of the 14 provinces, six members appointed by the Government, and three official members, including the President.

It was originally set up by the British to maintain control among Fiji's 340 islands after they were ceded to Queen Victoria by Cakobau, King of Fiji, in 1874.

President Iloilo has said he will obey the court ruling, but first wants to consult with the chiefs who command great influence. The chiefs also hold some constitutional powers, appointing some senators, and, in consultation with the Prime Minister, the President and Vice President.

The chiefs may not accept the court ruling, leading to a new political impasse and further instability.

Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who was ousted by the coup, has urged Mr Iloilo and the chiefs to call elections.