Nothing Personal About Deportation

Fiji's Interim Prime Minister, Commodore Frank Bainimarama has stressed that there is nothing personal about the deportation of Fiji Times Publisher, Rex Gardner.Commodore Bainimarama said Gardner has not been ill-treated and people should know that he broke the law in Fiji.He said Gardner committed an offence and pleaded guilty, and that is the reason for his deportation as he has breached his work permit condition.Bainimarama also questioned why the concerned individuals did not raise serious concern when George Nacewa's visa was not renewed.The Fiji Times Editor has claimed that the newspaper is being targeted by the Interim government.Speaking to Radio Australia, Netani Rika said that following the deportation of Rex Gardner it is evident that they are being closely monitored.Rika also told Radio Australia that they knew since May last year that they will face tough times.The Chairman of the Fiji Media Council cannot understand the reason behind the deportation of Fiji Times Publisher Rex Gardner.Daryl Tarte said the judgment delivered by High Court Judge Justice Thomas Hickie is clear and gives no reason as to why Gardner's work permit had to be cancelled.He adds the government should realise that although Gardiner pleaded guilty to the charge of contempt of court, his conviction was not recorded.The National Federation Party believes the interim government should think of the consequences before deporting expatriates as there is a threat of backlash on Fiji citizens working in Australia and New Zealand.General Secretary, Pramod Rae said such actions are unacceptable.A Human Rights Commissioner and Fiji Womens Crisis Centre's, Shamima Ali said it is a concern that the interim government continues to take action against some media outlets.Rex Gardner has been deported back to Australia just about 9 months after his predecessor, Evan Hannah.Immigration Director, Commander Viliame Naupoto said Gardner committed an offence, and this resulted in him being declared a prohibited immigrant.Naupoto told Fijivillage News early this morning that Gardner boarded the flight from Nausori to Nadi at 7 o'clock this morning and left Fiji at 9am.