Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, the chairman of the Great Council of Chiefs, has expressed support for the release of political prisoners who were freed from prison this week, stating that they have served their time. His comments come in the wake of the release of George Speight, the leader of the 2000 coup, and former military officer Shane Stevens on Wednesday.
Ratu Viliame conveyed his relief regarding their release, emphasizing that it was expected given that both men had served longer than their prescribed sentences. He noted the extensive discussions surrounding the potential release of Speight, mentioning that opinions had fluctuated on whether he should be allowed to leave prison.
He affirmed that the judicial system had functioned properly, with the punishments assigned being proportional to the crimes committed. “If the judicial system finds a person guilty and sets a punishment that includes a prison term aimed at reform, then that process should be followed,” he asserted.
Upon completing their sentence, Ratu Viliame believes individuals should be allowed to reintegrate and pursue reform. He underscored the importance of respecting court decisions, regardless of the gravity of the crimes. “The court’s expertise must be respected, and once time has been served legally, individuals should be released,” he stated.
Ratu Viliame emphasized that holding someone in prison beyond their sentence constitutes injustice, irrespective of their identity. He remarked, “It is no longer justice, but injustice. Regardless of who it is, once they have served their time, they should be allowed to go.”