Shamima Ali, the coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, has expressed her belief that George Speight, the self-proclaimed leader of the 2000 coup, along with former military officer Shane Stevens, have significant accountability regarding their past actions.
Both Speight and Stevens, along with several others, were pardoned and released from prison on Thursday after serving over 20 years. Ali emphasized that, while she believes in second chances, the pair needs to address their actions sincerely.
“As a human rights activist who was involved with the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre during the coup, I recall the deep fear and trauma that affected many during that time,” Ali stated. She described the coup as a period of severe distress, where horrific events unfolded.
Ali urged both Speight and Stevens to engage earnestly in the Truth and Reconciliation process, reflecting on their past actions and providing the necessary assurance to the public. She expressed hope that Stevens would contribute positively to the military’s reconciliation efforts.
There is concern among the community, with some expressing fear as memories of the 2000 coup resurface, leading to a sense of panic. Ali stressed the importance of ensuring the community feels secure and reassured, despite the absence of visible danger.
“The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre conducted outreach in various communities following the coup, listening to many harrowing accounts of suffering, including instances of rape, sexual harassment, and loss of lives. People experienced humiliation, loss of livelihoods, and young girls were unable to attend school due to fear,” she shared.