Fiji's ethnic Indian dominated opposition party has accepted an offer of cabinet positions from the country's hard line nationalist Prime Minister. A multiracial cabinet is expected to ease fears of more political unrest in Fiji. This report from Phil Mercer:

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Opposition parties that win more than ten per cent of the vote are allowed a proportional number of posts in cabinet. Mr. Qarase thinks the idea is nonsense. He believes that the winner of an election should take all and not be forced to share the spoils.

However, the hard line nationalist leader has been obliged to offer ministerial positions to members of the Fiji Labour Party. It's dominated by ethnic Indians and is headed by a man the Prime Minister despises Mahendra Chaudhry. After an election defeat in 2001 Mr. Chaudhry rejected an invitation to join the cabinet. His acceptance this time around is seen as a strong indication that the ethnic Indians are now prepared to work with their indigenous rivals.

The relationship between both sides, however, is likely to be fractious. Racial tension is never far from the surface in Fiji. Mahendra Chaudhry was deposed by nationalist gunman in a coup six years ago. He was held hostage for fifty six days. The uprising was led by George Speight, a failed businessman, who's now serving a life sentence for treason.

Phil Mercer, BBC, Sydney

Listen to the words

reconciliation
becoming friendly again after a disagreement

behind the Prime Minister's offer
what the Prime Minister meant by his proposal

bound
compelled, has an obligation or a duty

nonsense
making no sense, absurd

spoils
profit or advantages gained by succeeding to public office, high position, etc.

dominated by
has a majority of

headed
led

despises
looks down on as inferior or worthless

indigenous
born in the region

fractious
unruly, not calm

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