Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre coordinator Shamima Ali says everyone is entitled to the due processes of justice without bias.
She said this in response to a statement issued on Thursday by Acting Home Affairs Minister Filimoni Vosarogo who said Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai had raised concerns with him on the application by Mr Speight and others for presidential pardon.
Ms Ali said she supported Mr Vosarogo’s response to the RFMF Commander.
“If the RFMF has concerns, then their assessment must be submitted to the Mercy Commission for consideration and judgment,” the human rights activist said.
“I agree with Mr Vosarogo and I am also encouraged by Mr Vosarogo’s reassurance.”
Mr Vosarogo said a petition for mercy was a recourse available to all persons convicted, not just a few and stressed the initiation of a petition by a prisoner “did not automatically mean a release”.
He also said in the assessment of a petition, various considerations must be considered before the recommendation was taken to the President for the exercise of his powers.
Mr Vosarogo said in the meantime, the Government would continue to liaise closely with the RFMF and the Fiji Police Force on law-and-order issues where necessary support and advice was needed.
