Police cancels gay community march

The gay community march that was to have taken this afternoon is no longer taking place as a result of police cancelling the permit.

The march was to commemorate International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia.

Police Commissioner Brigadier General Ioane Naivalurua said that reversing the decision took into consideration the safety of those that wanted to march which is why he directed an immediate review of the permit application.

Police said earlier on there were some concerns raised about the safety of the group.

Naivalurua said that recent media attention towards the group’s decision to hold a march today has influenced his decision to cancel the permit.

He said at the end of the day, the safety of all Fijians is the main priority for them and the decision has only been made in the interest of all Fijians.

According to the organizers Oceania Pride, they were advised by police that they did not realize that it was a march for gays and lesbians. 
They were also advised that they had received a directive from the Ministry of Defense to cancel the march.

Oceania Pride also added the cancellation of the permit by the State is a violation of the freedom of expression of the gay community.
 

Story by: Sneh Chaudry and Gwen McGoon
Source: Press Release