George Speight has prioritized family following his release from a 24-year prison sentence. Convicted of treason for leading the coup in 2000, Speight was granted a presidential pardon last Thursday.
Since his release, he has been avoiding the media as he awaited the arrival of his older brother, Sam Speight, from Hamilton, New Zealand, who arrived on Friday.
Niece Jacqueline Speight shared her thoughts on the reunion, stating, “Reunited after 24 long years, the brothers come together in freedom, celebrating the love, memories, and unbreakable bond that time can’t erase.” She emphasized the importance of family, calling it a “season of gratitude.”
She expressed her surprise at the unexpected turn of events, remarking, “No one could have scripted the events that happened on Thursday. It will forever be etched in my mind and heart. Praise God indeed.”
George Speight’s other siblings, Jim, Esther, and Salome, reside overseas, along with their 93-year-old father, Sam Speight Sr. Meanwhile, family members in Naivicula, Wainibuka, Tailevu, are eager to see him. A relative, wishing to remain unnamed, noted, “He went in when he was 43, and he is returning home now at 67. We’re looking forward to meeting him.”