Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed that he will continue to feel like a victim of the 2000 coup until George Speight, the coup leader, openly reveals the identities of those involved in the May 19 takeover of the Mahendra Chaudhry-led Government. In a recent media briefing, Rabuka emphasized Speight’s significant role in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission initiative and has called on him to share the truth regarding the events of the coup.
When asked about his involvement in the 1987 coup, Rabuka stated that his actions during the overthrow of the Bavadra-led Government are protected under the constitutions of 1990, 1997, and 2013, asserting, “It is constitutional.”
Rabuka also mentioned that he has not had the chance to communicate with Speight since his pardon and subsequent release, which was recommended by the Mercy Commission and granted by the President. He stated, “Nothing, I have not communicated nor have had the opportunity to speak with him.”
The Prime Minister reassured the citizens of Fiji, especially the Indo-Fijian community, that they are safe following Speight’s release. “I think they are very safe! They have nothing to worry about from his release, along with Mr. Shane Stevens… Everything is normal, we will remove that apprehension,” he concluded.