Mosese Bulitavu, a crossbencher Member of Parliament from the G9 group, has expressed his acknowledgment of the release of George Speight, the civilian coup leader who has been granted Presidential immunity. Bulitavu is the first G9 MP to comment on Speight’s release, which was approved after a review by the Mercy Commission.
In his statement, Bulitavu emphasized the importance of moving beyond past grievances and fostering reconciliation. He noted that the Republic of Fiji Military Forces is spearheading the reconciliation process. “The release of Ilikini Naitini, also known as George Speight, is a breakthrough towards the right direction,” Bulitavu stated.
He highlighted that few politicians, including himself, understand the significance of second chances for rehabilitated prisoners. According to him, society must work to change perceptions about those who have served time, recognizing them as members of the community after they have undergone rehabilitation through the Fiji Corrections Service.