The release of George Speight, who was instrumental in a violent coup in Fiji, has sparked widespread concern among the population, according to leaders of the Fiji Labour Party, including Mahendra Chaudhry. Speight, who spent 24 years in prison for leading the 2000 takeover of Parliament that resulted in the ousting of the democratically elected government, was granted a Presidential pardon on Thursday along with others by the Mercy Commission.
Chaudhry expressed that if Speight is genuinely remorseful for the chaos inflicted on the nation, he should disclose the complete truth regarding the events of 2000. He raised concerns about how justice will be delivered to the victims of Speight’s actions. Chaudhry emphasized that any moves to release individuals guilty of treason and severe crimes should have first prioritized justice and reconciliation for innocent victims.
He criticized the decision for Speight’s premature release, arguing that it has reignited anger from the events of 2000 without allowing for necessary healing. Chaudhry warned that this could harm the country’s sense of justice and have lasting negative effects on national unity and public trust in the government.
Chaudhry also noted that Speight’s release was anticipated, citing an election promise made by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka shortly before the 2022 general elections. He had anticipated Speight’s freedom following the earlier release of his associates Joe Nata and Timoci Silatolu.
In response to questions regarding Speight’s release, Rabuka affirmed that the process adhered to proper protocols established by the Prerogative of Mercy Commission, which assesses requests for clemency from prisoners or their families. Rabuka stated that the commission determined that release was justified.