Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed that he will continue to feel like a victim of the 2000 coup until George Speight, the leader of the coup, reveals the names of those involved in the takeover of Mahendra Chaudhry’s government on May 19. In a media briefing, Rabuka emphasized the importance of Speight’s involvement in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and urged him to speak the truth regarding the events.
When asked about his own role in the 1987 coup, Rabuka stated that his actions concerning the overthrow of the government led by Bavadra are documented in the constitutions of 1990, 1997, and 2013, characterizing them as constitutional.
Rabuka also mentioned that he has not had any opportunity to communicate with Speight since his release and pardon by the President, as recommended by the Mercy Commission. “I have not communicated nor had the opportunity to speak with him,” said Rabuka.
He reassured that the safety of all Fijians, especially Indo-Fijians, is a priority following Speight’s release. “I think they are very safe! They have nothing to worry about from his release together with Mr. Shane Stevens… Everything is normal, we will remove that apprehension,” he added.