Convicted coup leader George Ilikini Naitini Speight, former Counter Revolutionary Warfare Commander Shane Stevens, and a businessman from Suva have all received a Presidential pardon, leading to the suspension of their jail sentences.
The Mercy Commission, established under Section 119(3) of the Constitution, is empowered to recommend that the President of Fiji grant pardons, suspend sentences, or reduce penalties for individuals convicted of criminal offenses.
On September 11, 2024, the Commission reviewed ten petitions for mercy. Following thorough discussions, it made recommendations regarding petitions from Mahendralal Patel, George Speight, Shane Stevens, and six others.
Mahendralal Patel, known as Mahendra Motibhai Patel, was charged with abuse of office in 2006 and was convicted in absentia on November 20, 2014, receiving a 12-month prison sentence. His initial petition submitted on April 4, 2023, was dismissed, but after his lawyers requested reconsideration on June 13, 2024, the Commission deliberated on a new petition. Taking into account Patel’s age, time spent outside Fiji, and his contributions to the nation, the Commission recommended a conditional pardon, contingent upon no further offenses.
George Speight was charged with treason and pled guilty in 2001, initially sentenced to death, which was commuted to life imprisonment in 2002. He has served 24 years, one month, and 23 days, without any previous convictions. The Fiji Corrections Services (FCS) submitted positive reports on Speight’s behavior and supported his reintegration into society after reviewing psychological and judicial assessments. The Commission recommended that the President grant mercy to Speight, postponing his punishment indefinitely, in light of his rehabilitation and the duration of his incarceration.
Shane Stevens, convicted of incitement to mutiny in 2002, has been incarcerated for 21 years, eight months, and 20 days. Like Speight, he had no prior convictions. The FCS recommended his pardon based on his positive progress during imprisonment. After careful review, the Commission suggested that Stevens also be granted mercy by postponing his punishment for an indefinite period.
Following the Mercy Commission’s recommendations, the President acted under Section 119(5) of the Constitution on September 18, 2024. The Commission confirmed that its decisions are consistent with constitutional provisions.