Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has urged George Speight, the key figure behind the 2000 coup, to come forward with the truth regarding those who were involved in orchestrating the coup. In a media interview, Mr. Rabuka addressed the long-standing speculation that links him to the coup and the subsequent mutiny at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, despite his continuous denials.
He expressed that Speight’s silence has made him a victim over the years, stating, “We want him to tell the truth. I am one of those who have been victims of his silence.” Mr. Rabuka emphasized that because of Speight’s refusal to speak, he has not been able to clear his name concerning his supposed involvement in the 2000 coup.
During his sentencing in February 2002, Speight suggested that he was not acting alone and mentioned that if police had conducted a thorough investigation, he “would be in very distinguished company on Nukulau, not only in numbers but in names as well.” Recently, 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 punishment reduced to life imprisonment and completed 24 years in custody, including time on Nukulau Island and Naboro Corrections complex. Prime Minister Rabuka pointed out 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, also urged 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,” Chaudhry remarked, asserting that Speight was not the principal figure behind the coup.
Savenaca Narube, leader of Unity Fiji, highlighted the timeliness of Speight’s release for unveiling the masterminds behind 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, noting that while Speight has faced the consequences for his actions, others involved have yet to be held accountable.