ASHLEIGH PUTT-FALLOWS (SHE/HER) | Ngāti Whātua, Ngāpuhi-Ngāti Hine, Tūhoe
Fiji Coup Leader George Speight Granted Presidential Pardon After 24 Years
George Speight, the leader behind Fiji's 2000 coup, and Shane Stevens, the head of the mutineers, have been granted presidential pardons. They were among seven prisoners released on September 19, 2024, following recommendations from the Mercy Commission. Both Speight and Stevens had been serving life sentences for treason and mutiny, respectively. The Fiji Correction Service emphasized the government’s commitment to justice and rehabilitation, stating the Mercy Commission carefully considered each case. Speight had applied for a pardon in 2023, after serving over 20 years.
Oceans Near Critical Acidification Levels, Threatening Marine Life and Climate Stability
The world’s oceans are nearing dangerous levels of acidification, threatening marine life and climate stability, according to a report by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research. The study highlights nine key factors that regulate Earth's ability to sustain life, with six already breached due to human activity. Ocean acidification, driven by rising CO2 emissions from fossil fuels, is set to become the seventh. Lead author Boris Sakschewski warns that even with rapid emission cuts, further acidification may be inevitable.
Taiwan Hosts Māori Film Exhibition Highlighting Indigenous Struggles for Justice
The film exhibition Toitū Te Māori: New Zealand Historical Justice on Screen is now showing in Taiwan, offering insights into the Māori struggle for justice. Co-curated by Māori and Taiwanese filmmakers, the exhibition aims to inspire discussions among indigenous Taiwanese communities. Featured films include Whina, a biopic of Dame Whina Cooper, and other works highlighting key moments in Māori history. Despite different contexts, Māori and Taiwanese share transitional justice challenges. The exhibition runs at the Jing-Mei White Terror Museum until March 2025.
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