Will there be a peaceful transition in Fiji?

Stuff reports:

The Fijian military has been called in to help police maintain order as political turmoil continues after the Pacific nation’s election.

Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama lost power after 16 years when the kingmaker Social Liberal Democratic Party (SODELPA) sided with opposition parties to form a tripartite alliance.

The police force has now called in the military to assist with “the maintenance of security and stability”, citing reports of stonings targeting the homes and businesses of Fijians of Indian descent.

Bainimarama met with Policing Minister Inia Seruiratu, Military Commander Major General Jone Kalouniwai and Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho, where the action was decided unanimously.

This is a very bad sign. People on the ground say there has been no security issues – at best a couple of burglaries. The Police Commissioner is a former high ranking army officer, and not seen as independent.

I hope there will be a peaceful transition of power, but this is an ominous sign.