Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is urging George Speight, the key figure in the 2000 coup, to disclose the identities of those involved in orchestrating the coup.
In a media interview, Mr. Rabuka expressed that despite consistently denying any connections, speculation has long tied him to the coup and the subsequent mutiny at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua. He asserted that Speight’s silence has made him a victim for many years.
“We want him to tell the truth,” stated Mr. Rabuka, adding, “I am one of those who have been victims of his silence.” He noted that without Speight speaking out, he has been unable to clear his name regarding the allegations of his involvement in the 2000 coup.
During his sentencing in February 2002, Mr. Speight alluded to the possibility of additional conspirators, suggesting that if there had been a thorough police investigation, he “would be in very distinguished company on Nukulau, not only in numbers but in names as well.”
Last Thursday, Mr. Speight, along with former Counter Revolutionary Warfare Unit captain Shane Stevens, received presidential pardons. Speight, initially sentenced to death for treason, had his sentence reduced to life imprisonment and served 24 years, including time on Nukulau Island and at the Naboro Corrections complex.
The Prime Minister emphasized 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 coup, echoed the call for Speight to disclose the true instigators. “If George Speight is truly contrite about the devastation caused, the least he can do is reveal the truth,” Mr. Chaudhry remarked, asserting that Speight was not the mastermind behind the events.
Savenaca Narube, leader of Unity Fiji, also highlighted the significance of Speight’s release in revealing the coup’s orchestrators, expressing hope that the truth and reconciliation process will be impartial towards both victims and perpetrators. “For this process to succeed, the truth must prevail,” he stated, adding that unlike others involved, Speight has faced consequences for his actions.