Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is urging George Speight, the key figure behind the 2000 coup, to disclose the truth about the individuals involved in orchestrating the coup. In a media interview, Rabuka addressed the longstanding speculation linking him to the coup and the mutiny at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, despite consistently denying these allegations. He expressed that Speight’s silence has resulted in his victimization over the years and emphasized the importance of truth in clearing his name.
Rabuka pointed out that Speight’s lack of disclosure has hindered him from being absolved of his supposed role in the coup. During his sentencing in February 2002, Speight suggested he was not acting alone, stating that if law enforcement had conducted a thorough investigation, he would not be alone in terms of both numbers and identities on Nukulau Island.
Recently, Speight and Shane Stevens, a former captain of the Counter Revolutionary Warfare Unit, were granted presidential pardons. Speight, who was convicted of treason and initially sentenced to death, had his sentence reduced to life imprisonment, serving 24 years at various facilities.
The Prime Minister highlighted the significance of Speight’s release in relation to the coalition Government’s truth and reconciliation initiatives. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who experienced captivity during the 2000 coup, supported these calls and insisted that Speight should reveal the true orchestrators behind the events. He argued that if Speight is genuinely remorseful for the destruction caused, he should contribute to revealing the truth.
Savenaca Narube, leader of Unity Fiji, also noted that Speight’s release is an opportune moment to uncover the mastermind behind the coup. He expressed hopes that the truth and reconciliation process would remain politically neutral while addressing both victims and perpetrators, affirming that the success of this endeavor relies on uncovering the truth. Narube remarked that while Speight has faced consequences for his actions, others involved have not been held accountable.