George Speight has prioritized family following his release from prison after 24 years. Convicted of treason for his role in the 2000 coup, he had been serving a life sentence until receiving a presidential pardon last Thursday. Since then, he has been avoiding media attention as he awaited the arrival of his older brother, Sam Speight, from Hamilton, New Zealand, who arrived on Friday.
Niece Jacqueline (Jackie) Speight expressed joy over their 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 added, “It is family first. A season of gratitude,” and reflected on the unexpected nature of the events from Thursday, noting, “It will forever be etched in my mind and heart. Praise God indeed.”
Mr. Speight’s younger siblings, Jim, Esther, and Salome, live overseas, along with their 93-year-old father, Sam Speight (Sr). Meanwhile, family members in Naivicula, Wainibuka, Tailevu, are eager to reunite with him. A relative, who wished to remain anonymous, shared, “He went in when he was 43, and he is returning home now at 67. We’re looking forward to meeting him.”