Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has expressed concern over the release of George Speight, the leader behind the 2000 coup in Fiji, stating it has sparked fear across the country. In his remarks, Chaudhry highlighted that Indo-Fijians were the main victims of the violence and chaos instigated by Speight and his associates.
He noted that numerous innocent families in rural areas were traumatized and displaced, suffering for months due to the terror and violence. Chaudhry recounted that members of his government were held hostage in Parliament at gunpoint for 56 days, enduring threats, humiliation, and torture at the hands of rebel soldiers.
Chaudhry questioned who would seek justice for those affected by Speight’s actions. He criticized the decision to release individuals guilty of treason and other severe crimes without first addressing the needs of the victims. He emphasized that treason is a grave offense that typically carries a life sentence, and Speight’s release, ahead of a Truth and Reconciliation process, has reopened old wounds without the necessary healing.
He warned that this decision has diminished faith in the nation’s justice system and could have significant implications for national unity and public confidence in the current government. Chaudhry noted that Speight’s release was anticipated following an election promise made by the Prime Minister before the 2022 general elections.
Reflecting on the government’s actions since taking office, he suggested that Speight’s freedom was inevitable after the earlier release of his co-conspirators, Joe Nata and Timoci Silatolu, just six months prior. Chaudhry expressed hope that now that Speight is free, he will finally disclose the truth surrounding the events of the 2000 coup. Speight has consistently claimed he was not the true instigator of the coup.
Chaudhry concluded by stating that if Speight truly regrets the violence and destruction caused by his actions, he should at least reveal the truth about the events of 2000.