Face Off

Interim Prime Minister Commodore Frank Bainimarama and ousted Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase came face to face for the first time today since November 2006.

This happened earlier today at the late former military officer and SDL minister, Colonel Savenaca Draunidalo's memorial service at Suva's Centenary Church where Qarase delivered a eulogy.

Village News attended the church service. After the service, Bainimarama stood up and was being greeted by other guests at the service, however, Qarase, who was sitting just opposite Commodore Bainimarama and his wife, did not get up.

Bainimarama shook hands with everyone as he walked out and was seen chatting with former Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and former CEO at the PM's Office, Joji Kotobalavu before he left.

This afternoon, Village News questioned Qarase on why he did not take the opportunity to meet Bainimarama as he has been trying to speak to him over the past few months.

Qarase said he wanted to do that after the church service, but he could not get to him.