Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has urged George Speight, the leader of the 2000 coup, to disclose the identities of those who played a role in orchestrating the coup. In a media interview, Rabuka noted that despite his repeated denials, speculation has long connected him to the events of the 2000 coup and the mutiny at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ Queen Elizabeth Barracks.
Rabuka emphasized that Speight’s silence has cast him as a victim for many years. “We want him to tell the truth,” Rabuka stated, adding that Speight’s lack of communication has hindered his ability to disprove allegations regarding his involvement in the coup.
During his sentencing in February 2002, Speight suggested he was not the sole actor in the coup, mentioning that a thorough police investigation would reveal that he could be in “very distinguished company on Nukulau.”
Last week, 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, serving 24 years in total, including time on Nukulau Island and the Naboro Corrections complex.
Rabuka also pointed out that Speight’s release is key to the coalition Government’s efforts towards truth and reconciliation. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who was held hostage during the coup, supported Rabuka’s call, insisting that Speight must reveal the real instigators behind the coup. “If George Speight is truly contrite about the devastation caused, the least he can do is reveal the truth,” Chaudhry remarked.
Unity Fiji leader Savenaca Narube reinforced the need for Speight’s release to coincide with efforts to uncover 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 concluded, noting that Speight has faced consequences for his actions while others involved remain unaccountable.