Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has expressed his disapproval regarding the release of George Speight from prison. Speight, the leader of the 2000 civilian coup, was among seven individuals granted a Presidential Pardon last Thursday after the Mercy Commission reviewed his petition for mercy.
In 2000, Speight orchestrated a takeover of Parliament, resulting in the ousting of the democratically elected government led by Chaudhry. This coup triggered significant violence and unrest across the country, sparking fear among the populace, particularly among Indo-Fijians who were the main targets of the ensuing chaos.
Chaudhry highlighted the trauma inflicted on countless innocent families, who were displaced from their homes and farms during months of terror. He detailed how members of his government were held hostage in Parliament for 56 days, facing threats and extreme hardship at the hands of rebel soldiers.
Chaudhry questioned who would ensure justice for the victims of Speight’s actions and criticized the notion of releasing individuals guilty of treason without first addressing the needs for justice and reconciliation for those affected by their crimes. He pointed out that treason is a grave offense carrying a mandatory life sentence, and Speight’s release prior to a Truth and Reconciliation process is deeply concerning, reopening wounds from 2000 without any prior healing.
He noted that this development could undermine national unity and public trust in the current government. Chaudhry remarked that the release was anticipated following an election promise from Mr. Rabuka made shortly before the 2022 General Elections.
Reflecting on the priorities of Rabuka’s government since taking office, Chaudhry suggested that Speight’s release was inevitable, especially after the earlier pardons granted to co-conspirators Joe Nata and Timoci Silatolu.
Now that Speight is a free man, Chaudhry hopes that he will finally reveal the true circumstances surrounding the 2000 coup. He recalled that Speight has consistently claimed that he was not the actual leader or instigator of the coup, and at the time of his sentencing, he insinuated that there were others who should share the blame. Chaudhry concluded by stating that if Speight is genuinely remorseful for the destruction caused by his actions, he should disclose the truth about the events of 2000.