George Speight is prioritizing family after his release from prison, where he spent 24 years following his conviction for treason related to the 2000 coup. He had been serving a life sentence until receiving a presidential pardon last Thursday.
Since his release, Speight has been avoiding the media as he awaited the arrival of his older brother, Sam Speight, who traveled from Hamilton, New Zealand to reunite with him. Sam arrived on Friday.
Niece Jacqueline (Jackie) Speight described the emotional reunion, stating, “Reunited after 24 long years, the brothers come together in freedom, celebrating the love, memories, and unbreakable bond that time can’t erase.” She emphasized the importance of family, calling it “a season of gratitude.”
Jackie reflected on the surprise of the events that unfolded and said, “It will forever be etched in my mind and heart. Praise God indeed.” Other family members, including Mr. Speight’s younger siblings Jim, Esther, and Salome, live overseas, as does their 93-year-old father, Sam Speight Sr.
Family members in Naivicula, Wainibuka, Tailevu, are also eagerly anticipating his return. A relative, who preferred to remain unnamed, shared, “He went in when he was 43, he is returning home now at 67. We’re looking forward to meeting him.”