Coup leader George Speight and former Counter Revolutionary Warfare (CRW) Unit soldier Shane Stevens were granted presidential pardons and released from Fiji’s correctional facility today.
The decision, made by the Mercy Commission on 18 September 2024, comes 24 years after Speight led the 2000 coup that shook the nation.
Stevens, who was involved in the deadly mutiny at Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Delainabua on 2 November 2000, was also released. The mutiny resulted in the deaths of three loyalist soldiers: Lance Corporal S. Rawaileba, Private O. Rokosirinavosa, and Private T. Veilewai. The bloody confrontation remains one of Fiji’s darkest military episodes.
The pardons were granted under Section 119(5) of Fiji’s Constitution, following petitions for mercy submitted to the Commission.
Alongside Speight and Stevens, others granted clemency include Sekina Vosavakatini, Nioni Tagici, Adi Livini Radininausori, Mahendra Pate and John Miller.
“As a result, the named individuals have been officially discharged from custody today, Thursday, 19 September 2024,” a statement from Fiji Correction Service said.
James Sanjesh Goundar, also recommended for pardon, passed away on 6 September before the decision was enacted.
“The pardon, unfortunately, came too late for him.
“The Fiji Correction Service and the government remain committed to the principles of justice, rehabilitation, and the rule of law, and the Mercy Commission plays a vital role in ensuring that petitions for clemency are considered carefully, with due regard to the circumstances of each case,” the statement said.
