WELLINGTON (AFP) - Fiji's military coup leader expelled the New Zealand ambassador on Thursday after accusing him of interference in the South Pacific island nation's internal affairs.
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New Zealand quickly warned there would be serious consequences from the decision and said there had been no reason for the "completely unacceptable" expulsion, which comes with Fiji's regime under pressure to restore democracy.
Voreqe Bainimarama, who seized power in Fiji with a bloodless coup in December, did not provide details about the allegations against ambassador Michael Green beyond saying he had meddled in the nation's affairs.
"The practice of quiet diplomacy was foremost, given all the chances to prevail by Fiji authorities in our efforts to seek understanding and cooperation of Mr Green to stop interfering," a statement from his office said. He said the decision had been made with "deep regret and reluctance."
Like other nations in the region, New Zealand has expressed criticism of Bainimarama's December 5 coup and urged him to hold new elections and restore democracy.
Reports in New Zealand said Bainimarama had been angered earlier this month when Green was guest of honour at a rugby match between New Zealand and Fiji.
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