Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has voiced his disapproval regarding the recent release of George Speight from prison. Speight, who led the civilian coup in 2000, was among seven individuals granted a Presidential Pardon on Thursday, following a review by the Mercy Commission.
Chaudhry criticized Speight, who orchestrated the takeover of Parliament and expelled the democratically elected Chaudhry-led government, creating a period of chaos and violence in the country. This coup particularly targeted Indo-Fijians, leading to widespread trauma and dislocation for many families.
“Concerns are high among Indo-Fijians, who were the primary victims of the violence instigated by Speight and his associates,” stated Chaudhry. “Innocent families were displaced and traumatized due to months of terror. Members of my government were held hostage in Parliament for 56 days, facing constant threats and torture.”
Chaudhry raised doubts about who would ensure justice for those who suffered from Speight’s actions. He argued that any considerations for pardoning individuals guilty of treason should be preceded by efforts to deliver justice and reconciliation to the victims. Highlighting the seriousness of treason as a crime with a life sentence, he expressed disappointment in Speight’s early release, suggesting it reopened old wounds without necessary healing.
Chaudhry criticized the government, claiming Speight’s release was anticipated based on election promises made by current leaders. He emphasized that, given the government’s track record, it was only a matter of time before more coup conspirators would be released, following the earlier pardons of Joe Nata and Timoci Silatolu.
With Speight now a free man, Chaudhry expressed hopes that he would finally disclose the truth about the 2000 coup, suggesting that Speight had previously implied he was not the true leader of the uprising. Chaudhry remarked that if Speight were genuinely regretful for the chaos caused by his actions, he should take responsibility by revealing the full story of the coup.