George Speight is prioritizing family connections after being released from prison, where he spent 24 years. Speight, who was convicted of treason for leading the coup in 2000, had been serving a life sentence until he was granted a presidential pardon last Thursday.
Since his release, he has been keeping a low profile while waiting for the arrival of his older brother, Sam Speight, from Hamilton, New Zealand. Sam arrived on Friday.
Niece Jacqueline (Jackie) Speight shared her thoughts on their reunion, stating, “Reunited after 24 long years, the brothers come together in freedom, celebrating the love, memories, and unbreakable bond that time can’t erase.” She emphasized the importance of family, calling it a “season of gratitude.”
She reflected on the unexpected turn of events surrounding her uncle’s release, saying, “It came as a surprise. No one could have scripted the events that happened on Thursday. It will forever be etched in my mind and heart. Praise God indeed.”
Speight’s younger siblings, Jim, Esther, and Salome, live overseas, along with their father, Sam Speight Sr., who is 93 years old. Meanwhile, relatives in Naivicula, Wainibuka, Tailevu, are also eagerly anticipating his return. “He went in when he was 43, and he is returning home now at 67. We’re looking forward to meeting him,” commented a family member who wished to remain anonymous.