Timoci Bavadra

Timoci Uluivuda Bavadra was Prime Minister of Fiji from 14 April to 19 May 1987, when he was formally dismissed following his overthrow on the 13th by Lt. Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka.

Radio broadcast, 24 April 1987 (excerpts)

• "Let me assure you all that Government is fully, committed to ensuring your peace and security. We are firmly committed to ensuring the rule of law prevails in our beloved country. As I have said before our Constitution provides for freedom of expression and assembly but these freedoms must be exercised within the law and with due regard for the rights and freedom of others."

• "Like you, our love of the land is deep. Like you, our pride in the sacred traditions of our culture is immense. Like you, our desire for the economic advancement of our people is solid and enduring. And like you, we are committed to a better future for our children."

• "We are united in our commitment to strive for the advancement of our people - especially the women, the poor, the weak, the powerless, the youth, and the unemployed."

• "As leader of our nation, it is my sacred responsibility to defend democracy and the nation's interests. Let me assure you all that in my responsibility, I will not fail. My commitment, and that of my government, to the welfare, safety and security of the people is unshakable. Our nation has great potential, and already we have begun to realize our dream of a better and fairer Fiji. Let us not deny ourselves this golden opportunity of moving towards a better and brighter tomorrow."