Crossbencher Member of Parliament Mosese Bulitavu has expressed his acknowledgment of the release of 2000 civilian coup leader George Speight. Bulitavu is the first MP from the G9 coalition to comment on Speight’s release.
Speight was granted Presidential immunity last Thursday after the Mercy Commission reviewed his application on Wednesday. Bulitavu stated, “He (Speight) has served his time! We need to move away from our past and through reconciliation seek restoration.”
He noted that the Republic of Fiji Military Forces is taking the lead in promoting reconciliation, and he views Speight’s release as a significant step in the right direction. “Only a few of us politicians who have also served time behind bars understand why a fully rehabilitated prisoner deserves a second chance,” he added.
Bulitavu emphasized the need to change societal perceptions of formerly incarcerated individuals, advocating for their acceptance as part of the community following their rehabilitation through the Fiji Corrections Service.