Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is urging George Speight, the figure behind the 2000 coup, to disclose the complete truth about those who played a role in the coup’s planning. In a recent media interview, Rabuka addressed the long-standing speculation linking him to the coup and the mutiny at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ Queen Elizabeth Barracks, despite his repeated denials.
Rabuka expressed that Speight’s silence has made him a victim for years, stating, “We want him to tell the truth,” and adding that his lack of disclosure has hindered his attempts to clear his name regarding the coup.
During Speight’s sentencing in February 2002, he suggested he was not acting alone, indicating that if law enforcement had conducted a thorough investigation, he would be in the company of other notable figures.
Speight and former Counter Revolutionary Warfare Unit captain Shane Stevens were granted presidential pardons last Thursday. Convicted of treason and initially sentenced to death, Speight’s sentence was later reduced to life imprisonment, during which he served 24 years, including time at Nukulau Island and Naboro Corrections complex.
Rabuka also emphasized that Speight’s release is crucial for the current coalition government’s efforts towards truth and reconciliation. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who was held hostage during the coup, reiterated the call for Speight to disclose the identities of the true conspirators, asserting that if he genuinely feels remorse for the chaos caused, revealing the truth is a necessary step.
Savenaca Narube, leader of Unity Fiji, highlighted the importance of Speight’s release in shedding light on the masterminds behind the coup, advocating for a truth and reconciliation process that remains politically neutral and focuses on all individuals impacted by the events. He stated, “For this process to succeed, the truth must prevail,” while noting that Speight has faced consequences for his actions, unlike other individuals involved who have escaped accountability.