Mosese Bulitavu, a Member of Parliament from the G9 coalition, has expressed support for the release of George Speight, the civilian leader of the coup that took place in Fiji. Bulitavu is the first MP from G9 to comment following Speight’s release, which occurred after he was granted Presidential immunity on Thursday. This decision came after the Mercy Commission reviewed Speight’s 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 acknowledged the role of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces in leading reconciliation efforts, viewing Speight’s release as a significant step forward.
Furthermore, Bulitavu highlighted that only a few politicians who had also faced imprisonment could truly comprehend why a fully rehabilitated individual should be given another opportunity. He stressed the importance of changing societal perceptions regarding those who have served their sentences, urging acceptance of individuals like Speight after their rehabilitation through the Fiji Corrections Service.