SUVA, FIJI (6 August 2004) -- A call for peace and stability in the country resounded as emotional supporters of Vice President Ratu Jope Seniloli and four other political figures convicted of treason in the 2000 coup left the High Court of Suva for jail yesterday. Police spokesman Mesake Koroi said the force appealed to the public to maintain law and order and respect the ruling that found five of the accused guilty. "It's not the end of the road. And justice has prevailed. No one should take the law into his or her own hands," he said. The five are Vice President Ratu Jope Seniloli, Deputy Speaker of the House Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure, Viliame Volavola, Viliame Savua and former parliamentarian Peceli Rinakama. Military Commander Voreqe Bainimarama did not wish to comment as he awaited an official announcement from authorities. Leader of the Fiji Democratic Party Filipe Bole said there was nothing anyone could do because the rule of law is maintained. Secretary of the Soqosoqo ni Vakavulewa ni Taukei Party Ema Druavesi said she felt for the families of the accused but that the decision by Justice Nazhat Shameem should be respected. She said Youth Minister Isireli Leweniqila's acquittal should be a lesson for him not to make rash decisions in future. "He was lucky, very lucky. That should teach him to steer clear of bad influence. It should also serve as a lesson to the others," Ms Druavesi said. Prime Laisenia Qarase and Fiji Labour Party Leader Mahendra Chaudhry could not be reached for comment. | | Opposition leader Mick Beddoes had a mixed reaction to yesterday's verdict. Beddoes said that the verdict was not something he felt like celebrating because of how unfortunate it was that we needed to go through the trauma of 2000 in the first place. He said that he felt for the families of the accused at this time and because these long, drawn-out and periodic verdicts become "un-nerving" for our people. Mr Beddoes added that he was satisfied that the verdict had been rendered, and that at last the judiciary was re-exerting its authority. Mr Beddoes said the people should remember that no one, no matter what office or position one holds, was above the law. "The gentlemen concerned are paying the price for the decisions they made during the events of May, 2000, and the people must accept the verdict and people who are contemplating breaking the law should take heed," he said. Mr Beddoes said that he looked forward to the day when Fiji would conclude its last remaining case and bring closure to this unfortunate chapter in our history. SOURCE - Fiji Sun |
