Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is urging George Speight, who was at the forefront of the 2000 coup, to disclose the identities of individuals involved in orchestrating the coup. In a recent media interview, Mr. Rabuka addressed the long-standing speculation that he had connections to the coup and the subsequent mutiny at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, despite his continual denials.
Mr. Rabuka expressed that Speight’s unwillingness to speak out has victimized him for many years. “We want him to tell the truth,” he stated, emphasizing that his silence has obstructed his ability to clear his name regarding the 2000 coup allegations. Speight had previously suggested during his February 2002 sentencing that he was not acting alone, implying that a thorough investigation by the police would reveal other key players.
Recently, Speight and former Counter Revolutionary Warfare Unit captain Shane Stevens received presidential pardons. Speight, who was convicted of treason and originally sentenced to death, had his punishment changed to life imprisonment, serving a total of 24 years in custody, including time on Nukulau Island and at Naboro Corrections complex.
The Prime Minister also pointed out that Speight’s release is significant for the coalition Government’s truth and reconciliation initiatives. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who was taken hostage during the coup, echoed this sentiment, insisting that Speight must identify the true masterminds behind the events. “If George Speight is genuinely remorseful about the devastation caused, he should at least reveal the truth,” Mr. Chaudhry remarked, asserting that Speight was not the real leader of the coup.
Savenaca Narube, leader of Unity Fiji, emphasized the importance of Speight’s release in shedding light on those responsible for the coup. He expressed hope that the truth and reconciliation process would be impartial, addressing both victims and perpetrators alike. “For this process to succeed, the truth must prevail,” Mr. Narube stated, noting that while Speight has already faced consequences for his actions, others involved have yet to be held accountable.