Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has expressed concern over the release of George Speight, the leader of the 2000 coup in Fiji, stating that it has instilled fear across the country. Chaudhry, who leads the Fiji Labour Party, noted that Indo-Fijians were primarily targeted during the chaos and violence orchestrated by Speight and his associates.
He highlighted that numerous innocent families in rural areas suffered trauma and were displaced from their homes and farms as a result of the prolonged terror. Chaudhry recounted that members of his government were held hostage in Parliament for 56 days, facing constant threats, humiliation, and physical as well as psychological abuse from rebel soldiers.
Chaudhry questioned who would seek justice for the victims of Speight’s actions, criticizing any attempts to release those guilty of treason without first ensuring justice and reconciliation for the innocent. He pointed out that treason is a serious offense that carries a mandatory life sentence and expressed disappointment over Speight’s release occurring before a Truth and Reconciliation process, claiming it has reignited outrage from 2000 without the necessary healing.
He warned that this development undermines the nation’s sense of justice and could have lasting repercussions for national unity and public trust in the current government. Chaudhry also remarked that Speight’s release was anticipated following an election promise made by the Prime Minister during a rally in Nasinu shortly before the 2022 general elections.
The former Prime Minister noted that, based on the government’s actions since taking office, it was likely that Speight would be released, especially after the earlier release of his co-conspirators Joe Nata and Timoci Silatolu just six months prior. Chaudhry expressed hope that with his newfound freedom, Speight might finally disclose the truth about the events of the 2000 coup, maintaining that he has always claimed not to be the true instigator.
Chaudhry recalled Speight’s comments during his sentencing in February 2002, where he suggested that if the police were honest about the evidence presented, he would not be alone in facing justice. He concluded by stating that if Speight truly regrets the violence and destruction caused by his actions, he should at least contribute to uncovering the truth about the coup.