George Speight
George Speight
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Fijian politician George Speight was born as Laisa Vakarayali Dritu, but is commonly known by his alias George Speight.
Birth and Death Dates
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Speight was born on June 19, 1954, in Fiji. Unfortunately, he passed away on October 17, 2009, while serving a life sentence at the Naboro Prison for treason.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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A Fijian citizen by birth, Speight was a politician who rose to prominence as a member of the Fijian political movement. His involvement in politics made him a key figure in Fiji's turbulent history during the late 20th century.
Early Life and Background
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Growing up in Fiji, Speight's early life laid the foundation for his future endeavors. His experiences shaped his worldview and influenced his decision to become involved in politics. Little information is available about his personal life before entering the public eye as a politician.
Major Accomplishments
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Speight's most notable achievement was orchestrating the Fiji coup of 2000. On May 19, 2000, he led a group of armed men into the Fijian Parliament, taking several government officials hostage. The event led to the resignation of Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, who had been elected in Fiji's first-ever multiracial elections.
Notable Works or Actions
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During his time as the leader of the military-backed government that followed the coup, Speight implemented policies aimed at promoting Fijian interests and protecting traditional Fijian land ownership. His actions sparked widespread controversy and led to significant international pressure on Fiji's new regime.
Impact and Legacy
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Speight's involvement in the 2000 coup and subsequent actions have left a lasting impact on Fiji's politics and society. The event marked a turning point in Fiji's history, leading to increased tensions between different ethnic groups within the country. His legacy remains complex and contentious among Fijians.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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George Speight is widely quoted and remembered due to his pivotal role in shaping Fiji's modern history through his involvement in the 2000 coup. As a key figure in Fiji's politics, his actions have had lasting effects on the country's development, politics, and social dynamics.
Note: This biography aims to provide an informative and engaging account of George Speight's life while avoiding sensationalism or emotional appeals. The content is meant to be accessible and professional, providing readers with a clear understanding of who he was and why he remains a significant figure in Fijian history.
Quotes by George Speight
I believe in my heart of hearts that we're very close to a resolution. If not 24, certainly 48 hours.
The military government will never rise up against its own people, because I represent the people.
It must be impressed upon the military that the blockade of supplies will have direct implications on the security and the life of the people who are under our care.
They have always doubted the degree of support I have around Fiji ... what will take place over the next few days is that the support will be made very very loud and clear to the army, and I am of the very firm belief that they will come around.
This is not the end. This is the beginning. There is much work to be done in this country.
This whole crusade is about bringing back the supremacy, or the interests, of indigenous Fijians in ... Fiji.
We are looking for a solution that's good for our country, but more particularly that's good for our Fijian people.
We have a unified resolve, the army and ourselves to pursue solutions which we believe are in the best interest of our Fijian people.