The United States Government is deeply disappointed by the abrogation of Fiji's constitution, which it sees as movement away from the goal of returning Fiji to democratic governance and its formerly leading role in the Pacific.

Acting Deputy spokesperson for the US Department of State Richard Aker said they are concerned by the implications this abrogation holds for the future of judicial independence, media freedom, and democracy itself in Fiji.

He called upon the Fiji government to respect the protections afforded the people of Fiji by the 1997 Constitution, until the country can once again hold free and fair elections.

The United States reiterated its call for Fiji to adhere to the timetable and benchmarks articulated by the Pacific Islands Forum.