The recent release of George Speight, the leader of the 2000 coup, and Shane Stevens from prison has sparked diverse reactions throughout Fiji. Akeneta Naseka Seavula, the widow of fallen police officer Corporal Filipo Seavula, who lost his life during the turmoil, is one of the individuals directly affected by this event.
Despite the painful memories, Ms. Seavula and her family have chosen to forgive Speight and the rebels involved. “We are all human beings. God Almighty encourages us to forgive those who have done you wrong,” she expressed from her home in Nakasi, Nasinu.
Corporal Seavula was killed during a confrontation between rebel forces and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces amid the chaos that followed the overthrow of Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry’s government.
Recalling the traumatic events of that day, Ms. Seavula shared her experience of living at the Nasese Police Barracks. She described a harrowing Sunday morning when gunfire erupted as her husband left for duty. “Everyone was told to take cover,” she recalled, noting the arrival of military trucks and sirens hours later. When police informed her of her husband’s death, she was overwhelmed with shock and grief.
Left to care for their three young children alone, Ms. Seavula felt devastated but expressed gratitude for the support she received during that difficult time.
As a devout Catholic, her faith has played a crucial role in her ability to cope. Since 2000, the Holy Rosary has been her constant source of strength, guiding her through the challenges of single parenthood. “Even though what Mr. Speight did was wrong, God teaches us to forgive. And I forgive Mr. Speight, my family does too,” she stated. She believes that holding onto resentment hinders progress and emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s plan.
Today, as a grandmother of six, Ms. Seavula acknowledges the enduring effects of the 2000 coup on many lives in Fiji. Nonetheless, she urges forgiveness as a means of healing and rebuilding the nation.
The events surrounding Corporal Seavula’s death on May 28, 2000, remain one of the most tragic chapters in Fiji’s history. That day also saw rebels vandalizing Fiji Television Limited while Prime Minister Chaudhry and Labour government officials were taken hostage at the Parliament for 56 days.