Shamima Ali, coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, has expressed her belief that George Speight, who led the 2000 coup, and former military officer Shane Stevens have significant responsibilities following their release from prison due to a Presidential pardon granted on Thursday.
While recognizing that everyone deserves a second chance, Ali emphasized that both Speight and Stevens have much to answer for regarding the turmoil caused during the coup. As a human rights activist who worked at the Crisis Centre during that tumultuous period, she recalled the widespread fear and suffering experienced by the community.
Ali remarked on the frightening atmosphere during the coup, describing it as a time when chaos ensued and many people endured severe hardship. She urged both men to engage sincerely in the Truth and Reconciliation process, acknowledging their past actions and providing the community with necessary reassurances.
Furthermore, she expressed a desire for Stevens to actively participate in reconciliation efforts within the military. Ali noted that the community remains anxious and recalls the events of 2000, highlighting the need for government assurances regarding safety, despite there being no immediate threats.
She also recounted the experiences shared by the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre during their outreach following the coup, revealing both inspiring resilience and significant suffering, including instances of sexual violence and the disruption of lives and education due to fear.