Convicted coup leader George Speight and mutineer Shane Stevens have been released following presidential pardons granted yesterday by President Ratu Willame Katonivere. They were among ten individuals recommended for pardons by the Mercy Commission.
The Mercy Commission, which operates under Section 119(3) of the Constitution, has the power to recommend the President grant pardons, delay punishments for specified periods, or reduce sentences. Attempts to reach Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, for comment were unsuccessful as he is currently in Hawaii. Their release may complement the RFMF’s reconciliation and restoration program.
On September 11, the Commission evaluated ten mercy petitions, ultimately suggesting 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 clarified that its decisions adhered strictly to the Constitution.
George Speight had been convicted of treason in 2001 and initially faced the death penalty, which was later commuted to life imprisonment in 2002. After serving 24 years and more than 8800 days in custody, during which he received positive evaluations from Fiji Corrections Services, he was recommended for pardon based on his rehabilitation.
Shane Stevens, convicted of incitement to mutiny in 2002 and having served 21 years and nearly 8000 days, also received positive assessments from the FCS. The Commission recommended his pardon due to his progress and rehabilitation while incarcerated.
Mahendra Lal Patel had faced a conviction for abuse of office in 2006 and received an in absentia sentence in 2014. After a second petition was reviewed, the Commission granted him a conditional pardon, taking into account his age, time spent outside Fiji, and contributions to the country.
Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Jalesi Nakarawa affirmed that the pardons were granted following established procedures, stating that the Mercy Commission’s reviews are submitted to the President for final approval.