Convicted coup leader George Ilikini Naitini Speight, former Counter Revolutionary Warfare Commander Shane Stevens, and a Suva businessman have received presidential pardons, allowing them to avoid additional jail time.
This decision follows the Mercy Commission’s review, which operates under section 119(3) of the Fijian Constitution, granting the power to recommend the President of Fiji to (a) issue a free or conditional pardon, (b) delay punishment for a specific or indefinite period, or (c) lessen all or part of a punishment for individuals convicted of criminal offenses.
On September 11, 2024, the Mercy Commission reviewed ten petitions for mercy. After thorough deliberation, they made recommendations for Mahendralal Patel, George Speight, Shane Stevens, and seven other petitioners.
Mahendralal Patel, also known as Mahendra Motibhai Patel, was convicted of Abuse of Office in 2006, in absentia, and sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment on November 20, 2014. His initial mercy petition submitted on April 4, 2023, was denied. However, a letter from his lawyers requested a reconsideration on June 13, 2024. Taking into account his age, time spent outside Fiji, and contributions to the nation, the Commission recommended a conditional pardon for Patel, contingent on no further offenses.
George Speight was charged with treason in 2001 and sentenced to life imprisonment after his death sentence was commuted in 2002. Having served 24 years, over 8,800 days at Nukulau Island and Naboro Correction Facility, he has no previous convictions. Reports from Fiji Corrections Services highlighted his good behavior and suggested a pardon. Consequently, the Commission recommended postponement of his punishment for an indefinite period, acknowledging his rehabilitation and lengthy incarceration.
Shane Stevens, convicted of Incitement to Mutiny in 2002, has served 21 years and nearly 8 months in Naboro Prison, also without prior offenses. The Fiji Corrections Services assessed his positive development and recommended his pardon. Following this evaluation, the Commission recommended mercy for Stevens as well, by postponing the execution of his punishment indefinitely.
On September 18, 2024, the President acted on the Mercy Commission’s recommendations in accordance with Section 119(5) of the Constitution, confirming that these decisions were duly made under constitutional authority.