The release of George Speight, who was responsible for significant unrest and violence in Fiji, has raised concerns within the nation, according to Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry. After serving 24 years for his role in the 2000 invasion of Parliament aimed at overthrowing the democratically elected government led by Chaudhry, Speight was released on Thursday following a Presidential pardon granted by the Mercy Commission.
Chaudhry stated that if Speight truly regrets the harm caused by his actions, he should come forward with the truth about the events of 2000. He emphasized the need for justice for the innocent victims affected by Speight’s actions and criticized the idea of releasing individuals guilty of treason before addressing the needs for reconciliation and justice for those who suffered.
Chaudhry pointed out that treason is a grave offense that typically results in a life sentence. He expressed disappointment at the timing of Speight’s release, suggesting that it has reignited feelings of outrage from 2000 without allowing for a healing process to take place first. He believes this undermines the nation’s sense of justice and could have lasting effects on national unity and confidence in the government.
He claimed that Speight’s release was anticipated, pointing to an election commitment made by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka at a rally just weeks before the 2022 election. Chaudhry noted that following the earlier releases of Speight’s co-conspirators, Joe Nata and Timoci Silatolu, it was expected that Speight would also be set free.
Chaudhry hopes that Speight will now disclose what he knows about the coup, as he has previously asserted that he was not the true leader behind the events. In response to queries concerning Speight’s release, Rabuka stated that the Prerogative of Mercy Commission followed appropriate procedures in granting the pardon after considering pleas from Speight and his family.