Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is urging George Speight, the figure behind the 2000 coup, to disclose the identities of those involved in the coup’s planning. In a media interview, Mr. Rabuka addressed years of speculation linking him to the coup and the subsequent mutiny at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ Queen Elizabeth Barracks, despite his repeated denials.
Mr. Rabuka expressed that Speight’s silence has caused him to be viewed as a victim in this situation. “We want him to tell the truth,” he stated, emphasizing that Speight’s reluctance to speak has hindered his ability to clear his name regarding the coup.
During his sentencing in February 2002, Speight suggested that he was not acting alone, indicating that a thorough police investigation would reveal that he “would be in very distinguished company on Nukulau,” implying the involvement of others.
Recently, Mr. Speight and former Counter Revolutionary Warfare Unit captain Shane Stevens received presidential pardons. Speight, who was convicted of treason and had his initial death sentence commuted to life imprisonment, served 24 years, including time at Nukulau Island and the Naboro Corrections complex.
The Prime Minister noted that Speight’s release is significant for the coalition Government’s truth and reconciliation efforts. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who was held hostage during the coup, reiterated the call for Speight to reveal the true instigators, stating, “If George Speight is truly contrite about the devastation caused, the least he can do is reveal the truth.” Chaudhry also asserted that Speight was not the actual leader behind the events.
Unity Fiji leader Savenaca Narube emphasized that Speight’s release presents an opportunity to uncover the masterminds behind the coup. He expressed hope that the truth and reconciliation process would be impartial, addressing the needs of both victims and perpetrators. “For this process to succeed, the truth must prevail,” Narube added, highlighting that while Speight has faced consequences for his actions, others involved have not been held accountable.