Crossbencher Member of Parliament Mosese Bulitavu has expressed acknowledgment regarding the release of George Speight, a civilian coup leader. Mr. Bulitavu is the first MP from the G9 party to comment on Speight’s release.
Speight was granted Presidential immunity on Thursday after the Mercy Commission reviewed his application on Wednesday.
“He has served his time, and we need to move away from our past, seeking restoration through reconciliation,” stated Mr. Bulitavu. He emphasized that the Republic of Fiji Military Forces is guiding the reconciliation process, and Speight’s release represents a significant step forward.
Mr. Bulitavu remarked that only a few politicians, who have also spent time in prison, can truly understand why a rehabilitated individual deserves another chance. He highlighted the importance of changing societal perceptions of ex-convicts who have completed the Fiji Corrections Service rehabilitation process, stating that society must accept them back as part of the community.