The Mercy Commission convened on September 18, 2024, to review mercy petitions from several individuals. The petitioners included Sekina Vosavakatini, Nioni Tagici, James Sanjesh Goundar, Adi Livini Radininausori, John Miller, George Speight, and Shane Stevens.
Following thorough deliberations, the Commission recommended mercy, leading His Excellency, the President of Fiji, to grant pardons to all the petitioners under Section 119(5) of the Constitution. These pardons were officially issued on September 18, 2024.
Consequently, the individuals have been released from custody as of today, September 19, 2024. However, it is noted that James Sanjesh Goundar, who died on September 6 at the Minimum Corrections Center, was unable to benefit from this pardon.
The Fiji Correction Service and the government reaffirm their commitment to justice, rehabilitation, and the rule of law. The Mercy Commission is essential in ensuring that each clemency petition is thoughtfully reviewed, with consideration given to the individual circumstances involved.