New Fiji president seen as beginning of new era

For the first time the president of Fiji will be a non-iTaukei man with no chiefly links now that Jioji Konrote has been elected.

The retired Major General, former government minister, and diplomat who is from the island of Rotuma, was elected by parliament on Monday.

Three members of the opposition National Federation Party abstained from voting as they said the process had been politicised.

However our correspondent Vosita Kotoiwasawasa says Mr Konrote's historic election has been generally well-received in Fiji.

"Some people have seen this as a major turnover from what they have been used to. Many young people are receptive to the idea that Fiji is now finally moving forward from the old ways of thinking that former politicians had instilled in the minds of the people."