The chairman of the Great Council of Chiefs, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, expressed his support for the recent release of political prisoners, including coup leader George Speight and former military officer Shane Stevens, who were released from prison this week. Ratu Viliame highlighted that they have completed their sentences, making their release appropriate.
Reflecting on the situation, Ratu Viliame admitted he was not surprised by the release but felt a sense of relief that it had finally taken place, noting that the individuals had served more time than what was mandated. He acknowledged the ongoing discussions about whether Speight should remain incarcerated or be freed, emphasizing that it was crucial to respect the judicial process.
He affirmed that a credible judicial system should assess guilt and proportionate punishment, allowing individuals to serve their time in prison with the aim of rehabilitation. Ratu Viliame maintained that once individuals have served their designated sentence, they should be permitted to reintegrate into society, as holding them beyond that period constitutes an injustice.
He underscored the importance of respecting the decisions made by the courts, regardless of the nature of the crime, advocating for the release of any individual who has fulfilled their sentence without legal cause for continued incarceration. Ratu Viliame concluded that it is imperative to uphold justice and not perpetuate injustice by retaining individuals in prison any longer than necessary.