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AUGUST 11, 2000

George Speight, the indigenous businessman who staged a coup in Fiji in May, has been charged with treason today.

The maximum sentence for treason is death. But execution is considered unlikely, as none have been carried out since the country gained independence from Britain in 1970.

Along with being charged with treason, Speight faces charges of onspiracy to commit treason, and being an accessory after the fact to treason. He did not enter a plea in court.

Speight led a takeover of the country's Parliament, which was dominated by ethnic Indians. Along with many supporters, he believes indigenous rights are being threatened by the country's minority Indian population.

The Great Council of Chiefs once governed the nation in a traditional form of government. Today, they have little governing power but hold great respect and influence over citizens.

Last month, they helped pick new leaders for the government Speight ousted in the coup.

Speight appeared in court along with 14 others. The others face simliar charges.

Relevant Links:
Fiji Live - www.fijilive.com

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