Speight was released after due process, no interference from any other parties – Rabuka

Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka stresses the release of 2000 coup leader, George Speight followed the due process for the Mercy Commission.

While speaking to fijivillage News, Rabuka says there was no interference from any other parties.

This follows Opposition MP, Ketan Lal’s comments that they have received countless heartfelt messages from fellow Fijians who are deeply saddened and disappointed by the recent decision to release and pardon the leader of the 2000 coup, George Speight.

Lal says he understands that this decision has reopened old wounds for those who suffered loss whether it be family, livelihoods, business, or needed to leave our beloved country for safety back in those dark days.

He says the scars from the events of 2000 remain fresh for many, and he stands with the people in recognizing the profound impact this has had on their lives and the nation as a whole.

Speight was charged with treason and convicted on his own plea of guilty in 2001.

He had his death sentence commuted to life imprisonment in 2002, and Speight has been imprisoned for 24 years, 1 month and 23 days, both on Nukulau Island and at the Naboro Corrections Facility.

The Fiji Corrections Services provided positive reports on Speight's behaviour, recommending a pardon.

Psychological and judicial assessments were also reviewed, with the Corrections Service supporting his reintegration into society.

The Commission recommended that the President grant mercy to Speight, postponing the carrying out of his punishment for an indeterminate period, in recognition of his rehabilitation and the length of time he has served in prison.