26 Nov 2004

Law society and others welcome life sentence for Fiji government senator

11:43 am on 26 November 2004

The Fiji Law Society has welcomed the life sentence imposed on the government senator convicted of inciting the November 2000 mutiny.

The president of the Law Society, Graham Leung, says Ratu Inoke Takiveikata's jailing has affirmed the view that no one is above the law, regardless of their social standing or rank.

The Daily Post quotes Mr Leung as saying the landmark verdict also demonstrates that Fiji's judiciary is fearless.

Mr Leung says the sentence is a sobering reminder that if one pushes the boundaries too far, one can expect to pay a heavy price for one's actions.

The Citizens Constitutional Forum has also welcomed the sentence, saying it demonstrates that all citizens are equal before the law regardless of their status.

Fiji's military also expressed satisfaction over the court's decision

The military spokesman, Captain Neumi Leweni, has told Fiji TV that justice has finally prevailed.

Captain Leweni said the rule of law has taken its course and everyone should be thankful for that.