Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is urging George Speight, the leader of the 2000 coup, to come forward and disclose the identities of those who played a role in planning the coup.
In a recent media interview, Rabuka addressed the persistent speculation linking him to the events surrounding the 2000 coup and the subsequent mutiny at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, despite his repeated denials. He expressed that Speight’s reticence has left him facing undeserved suspicion for many years.
“We want him to tell the truth,” Rabuka stated. “I am among those who have suffered as a result of his silence.” He explained that Speight’s unwillingness to speak has hindered his efforts to clear his name regarding the coup.
During Speight’s sentencing in February 2002, he hinted that he was not acting alone, suggesting that a thorough investigation could reveal influential figures who were also involved.
Last Thursday, both Speight and former Counter Revolutionary Warfare Unit captain Shane Stevens received presidential pardons. Speight, who was originally sentenced to death for treason, had his sentence reduced to life imprisonment and completed 24 years, including time on Nukulau Island and at the Naboro Corrections complex.
Rabuka described Speight’s release as critical to the coalition government’s efforts towards truth and reconciliation.
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who experienced captivity during the 2000 coup, echoed the call for Speight to reveal the masterminds behind the coup. “If George Speight is genuinely remorseful about the devastation caused, he should at least disclose the truth,” Chaudhry remarked, asserting that Speight was not the true leader of those events.
Savenaca Narube, leader of Unity Fiji, also emphasized the significance of Speight’s release for uncovering the coup’s orchestrators. He expressed hope that the truth and reconciliation process would maintain political neutrality, addressing both victims and perpetrators. “For this process to be effective, the truth must be established,” Narube stated, noting that while Speight has faced consequences for his actions, others involved have not been held accountable.