The opposition raised a number of questions in parliament today regarding the status of 2000 coup leader, George Speight’s sentence.
Opposition Leader, Ro Teimumu Kepa questioned Minister for Justice, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum on this matter.
She also asked Sayed-Khaiyum the status of others who are also serving sentences in relation to the 2000 coup.
Sayed-Khaiyum said Speight is serving a life sentence after he was sentenced to death in February 2002.
This is after his death sentence was commuted to life following advice by the Prerogative of Mercy Commission in 2002.
Ro Teimumu said she wanted to know about the status of the sentences of Timoci Silatolu and Shane Stevens, and when they will be released.
Silatolu is serving life for treason while Stevens is also serving the life sentence for mutiny.
Sayed-Khaiyum said the process is clear.
He said the views of the victims will also be taken into account if any application is made by these people.
Opposition MP, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu then questioned what Speight can do to get a release.
Sayed-Khaiyum said the Mercy Commission looked into the issue when Speight was sentenced.
Opposition MP, Semesa Karavaki again raised the issue on whether Speight will be released while he is still alive.
The Minister for Justice again laid out the facts for the opposition.
Parliament has been adjourned to March 16th.
