Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has urged George Speight, the leader of the 2000 coup, to disclose the identities of those who were complicit in the coup’s planning. In an interview with the media, Rabuka addressed the ongoing speculation regarding his alleged involvement in both the coup and the mutiny at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, despite his persistent denials. He stated that Speight’s continued silence has made him a victim for many years.
Rabuka said, “We want him to tell the truth. I am one of those who have been victims of his silence.” He emphasized that Speight’s lack of communication has hindered his ability to clear his name concerning the coup. During his sentencing in February 2002, Speight suggested that he was not working alone, stating that a thorough police investigation would reveal that he “would be in very distinguished company on Nukulau, not only in numbers but in names as well.”
Last Thursday, both Speight and former Counter Revolutionary Warfare Unit captain Shane Stevens received presidential pardons. Speight, who was convicted of treason and initially sentenced to death, had his sentence reduced to life imprisonment after serving 24 years, which included time on Nukulau Island and at the Naboro Corrections complex.
The Prime Minister underscored that Speight’s release is crucial for the coalition Government’s truth and reconciliation initiatives. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who was taken hostage during the 2000 coup, supported these calls, asserting that Speight must reveal the true instigators of the events. “If George Speight is truly contrite about the devastation caused, the least he can do is reveal the truth,” Chaudhry remarked, insisting that Speight was not the actual leader behind the coup.
Unity Fiji leader Savenaca Narube also pointed out that Speight’s release presents an opportunity to uncover the masterminds of the coup. He expressed hope that the truth and reconciliation process would be impartial, addressing both victims and perpetrators. “For this process to succeed, the truth must prevail,” Narube stated, while noting that Speight has faced consequences for his actions, unlike other parties involved who remain unaccountable.