The Mercy Commission convened on September 18, 2024, to evaluate mercy petitions from several individuals, including Sekina Vosavakatini, Nioni Tagici, James Sanjesh Goundar, Adi Livini Radininausori, John Miller, George Speight, and Shane Stevens. Following their discussions, the Commission made recommendations for clemency, which were approved by His Excellency, the President of Fiji, under Section 119(5) of the Constitution. Pardons were officially issued to all petitioners on September 18, 2024.
As a result, the individuals mentioned were released from custody on Thursday, September 19, 2024. However, James Sanjesh Goundar, who had passed away on September 6 at the Minimum Corrections Center, did not benefit from the pardon in time.
The Fiji Correction Service and the government continue to uphold the principles of justice, rehabilitation, and the rule of law. The Mercy Commission is essential in ensuring thorough consideration of each clemency request based on its specific circumstances.