Fiji's influential traditional chiefs on Tuesday selected Ratu Josefa Iloilo as the country's President, state-run Fiji radio reported, in a move that could take the Pacific Republic closer to a return to democracy.
Iloilo, who is currently acting President, was chosen by more than 50 chiefs who gathered amid tight security, Suva, Fiji radio said. He was expected to be formally sworn in at a ceremony on Thursday, the report said.
Iloilo's formal naming to the post was touted as the first step to restoring constitutional government in Fiji, with fresh elections signalled for late August to replace the government ousted in a nationalist coup last May.
Seen as a moderating influence committed to returning Fiji to democracy, Iloilo has won strong support from Fiji's powerful military.
Moderates on both the indigenous Fijian and ethnic Indian sides of politics, and business leaders have also given him conditional support.
A recent ruling by the Fiji Court of appeal found the interim government of acting Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase illegal, instructing Iloilo to recall Parliament and step down by March 15. Qarase's administration was installed by the military after last year's coup.
Reports say the country's chief justice will swear Iloilo into office Thursday - the date his tenure as acting President ends.
Bureau Report
