Convicted coup leader George Speight and mutineer Shane Stevens have been released following presidential pardons. Along with eight others, they received pardons from President Ratu Willame Katonivere based on recommendations from the Mercy Commission.
The Mercy Commission, created under Section 119(3) of the Constitution, holds the authority to recommend that the President grant a pardon, postpone punishments, or remit sentences for individuals convicted of crimes.
Attempts to reach Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, for a statement were unsuccessful as he is currently in Hawaii. However, the pardons for Speight and Stevens may align with the military’s reconciliation and restoration program.
On September 11, the Commission assessed ten mercy petitions and recommended the release of several individuals, including:
– George Speight
– Shane Stevens
– Sekina Vosavakatini
– Nioni Tagici
– James Sanjesh Goundar
– Adi Livini Radininausori
– John Miller
– Mahendra Lal Patel
The Commission affirmed that its decisions were made in accordance with the Constitution.
Regarding George Speight, he was convicted of treason in 2001 after pleading guilty. He initially faced the death penalty, which was later changed to life imprisonment. After serving over 24 years, he was recommended for a pardon due to positive behavior and rehabilitation.
Shane Stevens, convicted of incitement to mutiny in 2002, served nearly 22 years in prison and, like Speight, had no previous convictions. His progress and behavior in prison led to the Commission’s recommendation for his pardon.
Mahendra Lal Patel, convicted of abuse of office in 2006 and sentenced in absentia, received a conditional pardon after his second petition was reviewed. The Commission took into account his age, time spent outside of Fiji, and contributions to the nation.
Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Jalesi Nakarawa confirmed that the pardons were granted following the appropriate procedures. He stated that the Mercy Commission reviews the petitions before submitting them to the President for final approval.