Fiji’s military commander has seized control of the country, marking the fourth coup in two decades, according to BBC online, Tuesday.
Commodore Frank Bainimarama said in a televised address he had assumed executive powers and dismissed Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase.
Cmdr Bainimarama accused the prime minister of corruption and leading Fiji on a path of doom.
Mr Qarase, who said he would now retire from politics, accused the military of bringing “shame to the country”.
The military takeover will add to the concerns of Australia and New Zealand about political instability in the wider Pacific islands region.
Australian Prime Minister John Howard earlier said he had turned down a request from Mr Qarase to send troops to prevent a coup.
