Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is urging George Speight, who led the coup in 2000, to disclose the identities of those who were involved in orchestrating the coup. During a media interview, Rabuka addressed the long-standing speculation linking him to both the 2000 coup and the mutiny at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, despite his repeated denials. He lamented that Speight’s silence has made him a victim over the years and called for transparency, stating, “We want him to tell the truth. I am one of those who have been victims of his silence.”
Rabuka asserted that Speight’s lack of disclosure has hindered his ability to clear his name regarding the allegations of his involvement in the coup. In a hint during his sentencing in February 2002, Speight implied he was not acting alone and suggested that a thorough police investigation would reveal others alongside him on Nukulau.
Recently, Speight, along with former Counter Revolutionary Warfare Unit captain Shane Stevens, received presidential pardons. Speight, who was initially sentenced to death for treason, ultimately served 24 years in prison after his sentence was commuted to life imprisonment.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Speight’s release is key to the coalition Government’s truth and reconciliation initiatives. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who experienced captivity during the 2000 coup, supported Rabuka’s call, insisting that Speight must reveal the real orchestrators behind the coup. Chaudhry stated, “If George Speight is truly contrite about the devastation caused, the least he can do is reveal the truth,” asserting that Speight was not the main leader of the coup.
Savenaca Narube, leader of Unity Fiji, remarked that Speight’s release comes at a crucial time for uncovering 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. Narube concluded that for the process to be effective, the truth must emerge, noting that while Speight has faced consequences for his actions, others involved remain unpunished.