Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has expressed deep concern over the release of George Speight, the leader behind the 2000 coup in Fiji, saying it has generated significant anxiety across the nation. In his statement, the Fiji Labour Party leader noted that Indo-Fijians were primarily targeted during the violence unleashed by Speight and his supporters.
Chaudhry highlighted the trauma inflicted on countless innocent families in rural areas, who were uprooted from their homes and livelihoods amid months of fear and brutality. He recounted how members of his government were held hostage in Parliament for 56 days, enduring threats, humiliation, and both physical and psychological torture at the hands of rebel forces.
He questioned who would seek justice for the victims of Speight’s actions, criticizing any attempts to release those guilty of treason without first addressing the needs of the innocent affected by the turmoil. He emphasized that treason is a grave offense, usually punishable by a life sentence, and expressed disappointment that Speight’s release occurred before a Truth and Reconciliation process had taken place, reigniting past grievances without the necessary healing.
Chaudhry also warned that this move undermines the nation’s sense of justice and could have long-lasting implications for national unity and public trust in the current government. He attributed Speight’s release to an electoral promise made by the Prime Minister during a rally in Nasinu shortly before the 2022 general elections.
Reflecting on the priorities of the current government, Chaudhry pointed out that the earlier release of Speight’s co-conspirators, Joe Nata and Timoci Silatolu, indicated that it was only a matter of time before Speight would also be freed. He expressed a hope that now that Speight is at liberty, he might finally disclose the truth about the 2000 coup, reiterating that Speight had previously suggested he was not the true leader behind the coup.
Chaudhry concluded by saying that if Speight genuinely regrets the violence and suffering caused by his actions, he should at least provide clarity regarding the events of 2000.