George Speight prioritized family upon his release after spending 24 years in prison. Speight was sentenced to life imprisonment for treason as the leader of the 2000 coup, but he received a presidential pardon last Thursday.
Since his release, he has avoided media attention while awaiting the arrival of his older brother, Sam Speight, who traveled from Hamilton, New Zealand and arrived on Friday. Niece Jacqueline (Jackie) Speight described their reunion as a heartfelt moment, stating, “Reunited after 24 long years, the brothers come together in freedom, celebrating the love, memories, and unbreakable bond that time can’t erase.”
Jackie emphasized the importance of family, calling it a “season of gratitude” and noted that the events surrounding his release were unexpected and profoundly impactful. She expressed her joy, saying, “It will forever be etched in my mind and heart. Praise God indeed.”
Mr. Speight’s younger siblings, Jim, Esther, and Salome, also live abroad, as does their 93-year-old father, Sam Speight Sr. Meanwhile, family members in Naivicula, Wainibuka, Tailevu are eager to meet him as well. A relative expressed anticipation, saying, “He went in when he was 43; he is returning home now at 67. We’re looking forward to meeting him.”