The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre is urging George Speight and Shane Stevens to sincerely engage with the current Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Coordinator Shamima Ali told Fiji One News that while everyone is entitled to a second chance, they must also take responsibility for their actions.
Concerns have been heightened following the release of Speight and Stevens yesterday. As a human rights activist who was involved with the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre during the 2000 coup, Ali recalled the fear and trauma experienced by the people during that time.
“I remember the fear and experiences of everyone during the coup. It was terrifying, a period marked by chaos where many suffered deeply,” Ali remarked.
Following the Presidential Pardon that led to the release of Speight and Stevens, the Centre has received inquiries from various community members expressing unease. They are advocating for the two to genuinely participate in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
“We are hearing from some community members who are anxious and fearful as they recall the events of 2000,” she stated.
“It was a time of complete disorder, and we need to assure the public, as the government must do, that they are safe, despite the absence of immediate threats. The trauma from that time remains, as we have not adequately addressed the pain inflicted upon those affected,” Ali continued.
Despite having spent over 20 years in prison, Ali emphasized that Speight and Stevens still have many questions to answer.