Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has expressed his disapproval over the recent release of George Speight from prison. Speight, the leader of the 2000 civilian coup, was one of seven individuals granted a Presidential Pardon on Thursday after a Mercy Commission reviewed their petitions for mercy.
In May 2000, Speight orchestrated a takeover of Parliament, which led to the ousting of the democratically elected government led by Chaudhry. This coup resulted in several months of chaos and violence, instilling fear across the nation.
Chaudhry highlighted the concerns of the Indo-Fijian community, who were significantly affected by the violence surrounding Speight’s actions. He noted that countless innocent families in rural areas were traumatized and displaced due to the brutality that ensued. Additionally, members of Chaudhry’s government were held hostage in Parliament for 56 days, enduring threats and torture from rebel forces.
Chaudhry questioned who would now guarantee justice for the victims of Speight’s actions, emphasizing that any decision to pardon individuals guilty of treason should be paired with efforts to provide justice and facilitate reconciliation for those wronged.
He pointed out that treason is a grave offense, typically warranting a life sentence, and expressed disappointment that Speight’s release occurred before a Truth and Reconciliation process could take place, reopening past grievances without allowing for healing.
Chaudhry argued that this situation undermines the nation’s sense of justice and could have significant repercussions on national unity and the public’s trust in the current government. He noted that Speight’s release was anticipated due to comments made by current Prime Minister Mr. Rabuka during the election campaign preceding the 2022 General Elections.
Reflecting on priorities since Rabuka took office, Chaudhry suggested it was only a matter of time before Speight was freed, following the earlier pardons granted to his associates Joe Nata and Timoci Silatolu last December.
Now that Speight is free, Chaudhry hopes he will provide clarity regarding the coup, referencing Speight’s previous claims of not being the true leader behind the takeover. At the time of his sentencing in 2002, Speight indicated that had the police been truthful about the evidence presented, he would have been regarded differently.
Chaudhry concluded by urging Speight to demonstrate genuine remorse for the violence and destruction his actions caused by revealing the truth about the events of 2000.