In September 2023, the Mercy Commission evaluated ten mercy petitions, delivering recommendations for cases involving Mahendralal Patel, George Ilikini Naitini Speight, and Shane Gurt Nailatikau Stevens, among others.
According to the Commission’s statement, Mr. Patel, also known as Mahendra Motibhai Patel, faced charges of 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 rejected. However, on June 13, 2024, his lawyers requested a reconsideration of his petition. The Commission took into account his age, the time he spent outside Fiji, and his significant contributions to the country, leading to a recommendation for a conditional pardon, provided he avoids reoffending.
Mr. Speight was charged with treason in 2001 and pleaded guilty, leading to a death sentence that was later commuted to life imprisonment in 2002. He has now served 24 years, 1 month, and 23 days, including time on Nukulau Island and at the Naboro Correction Facility, with no prior convictions. Positive behavior reports from the Fiji Corrections Services (FCS) contributed to a recommendation for his pardon, which acknowledged his rehabilitation and lengthy imprisonment.
Mr. Stevens was convicted of Incitement to Mutiny in 2002 and has been in prison for 21 years, 8 months, and 20 days at Naboro Prison, also with no previous convictions. The Commission recommended that his punishment be postponed indefinitely, supported by reports highlighting his positive progress during incarceration.
Following the Mercy Commission’s careful assessments, His Excellency the President took action on their recommendations under Section 119(5) of the Constitution on September 18, 2024. The Commission confirmed that all decisions were made in compliance with the Constitution, which grants it the authority to recommend pardons and adjustments to sentences for individuals convicted of crimes.