Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has expressed strong disapproval over the release of George Speight from prison. The leader of the 2000 coup d’état was one of seven individuals who received a Presidential Pardon on Thursday, following a review by the Mercy Commission on Wednesday. Speight was infamous for orchestrating the takeover of Parliament in 2000, which resulted in the ousting of Chaudhry’s democratically elected government. This coup led to prolonged chaos and violence across the nation, instilling fear among the populace.
Chaudhry voiced particular concern for the Indo-Fijian community, who were the primary targets of the violence instigated by Speight and his associates. He recounted the suffering of countless families in rural areas who were displaced and traumatized during the turmoil. Furthermore, members of the Chaudhry administration endured 56 days of hostage situations in Parliament, facing threats, humiliation, and torture at the hands of rebel soldiers.
Chaudhry questioned who would ensure justice for the victims of Speight’s actions, emphasizing that any decision to release individuals guilty of treason should have been preceded by efforts to address the needs of the victims. He noted that treason is a grave crime that typically warrants a life sentence, and Speight’s release prior to a Truth and Reconciliation process is troubling, as it reopens old wounds without providing the expected healing.
He added that this decision undermines the nation’s sense of justice and could have significant implications for national unity and public trust in the current government. Chaudhry pointed out that Speight’s release was anticipated following a campaign promise made by Prime Minister Rabuka before the 2022 General Elections.
Chaudhry also commented on the priorities of Rabuka’s administration since taking office, suggesting that it was only a matter of time before Speight was freed, especially after the earlier pardons of his co-conspirators, Joe Nata and Timoci Silatolu, last December.
Chaudhry expressed hope that, now a free man, Speight would finally disclose the truth about the 2000 coup, citing Speight’s claims since the onset of legal proceedings that he was not the true instigator of the uprising. He referenced statements Speight made during his 2002 sentencing, implying a sense of injustice in his prosecution. Chaudhry concluded by suggesting that if Speight is genuinely remorseful for the impact of his actions, he should share the full truth regarding the events of 2000.