Coup leader George Speight in Suva on 6 June 2000 where he was holding former prime minister Mahendra Pal Chaudhry's government hostage. Photo: AFP / TORSTEN BLACKWOOD
A Fijian academic says the release of George Speight highlights the importance of reconciling ethnic unrest in Fiji and unravelling the mystery and truth behind what really happened.
Mr Speight, former army captain Shane Stevens, and five others were pardoned last week, following recommendations by the Mercy Commission.
He led a racially motivated, armed takeover of the government in May 2000 and held its Indo-Fijian Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and his government hostage for 56 days.
At the time of the coup, violence was unleashed on Indo-Fijians in remote areas like Muaniweni, Baulevu, and Labasa.
University of Canterbury's Steven Ratuva says Mr Speights release will be triggering for some, but people will want the truth and deserve answers.
He spoke with RNZ Pacific's Eleisha Foon.
