Academic and founder of the Post Graduate Development Studies at USP believes that Fiji could not achieve a full democracy without going through its current "painful process" under the current governments.
Speaking to Radio New Zealand, Professor Crosbie Walsh said sacrifices have to be made to achieve the desired objectives in Fiji.
And as Pacific Island Leaders gather in Vanuatu for the Pacific Islands Leaders forum, Tongan Prime Minister Dr. Feleti Sevele also told Radio Australia that no amount of pressure can severe the ties between Fiji and Tonga.
Meanwhile, New Zealand's Prime Minister, John Key, said the stance the Pacific Islands Forum continues to take towards Fiji will be reaffirmed in Vanuatu this week.
Key said that its general tone is to reaffirm the stance taken by the forum in pushing for elections in Fiji.
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare will not attend this week's meeting due to personal reasons, and will be represented by Planning Minister Paul Tiensten.
Solomon Island Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua is also not attending due to the country's general elections.
The Pacific Islands Forum Meeting will be held tomorrow to Friday.
Story by: Roneel Lal
