Radio New Zealand
Suva, November 8, 2024
Former Fijian Prime Minister Bainimarama has been released from prison, only six months into his 12-month sentence, the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) said in a Statement.
Mr Bainimarama was jailed in May, alongside the former Police Chief Sitiveni Qiliho for perverting the cause of justice.
“The Fiji Corrections Service confirms that former Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama has been granted early release as of today (Friday), in accordance with section 46(3) of the Corrections Act. This decision follows a comprehensive review of his application, which was processed in line with the relevant legal provisions governing early release and supervised reintegration,” according to an official statement.
It said that Section 46(3) of the Corrections Act allows for an early release of inmates based on specific criteria that ensure both the security of the community and the facilitation of an inmate’s reintegration.
Rigorous Assessment
“All requirements were rigorously assessed, including eligibility criteria, conditions for release, and supervisory measures in place, in accordance with the guidelines established under FCS regulations. The FCS will continue to oversee Bainimarama’s reintegration to ensure compliance with all conditions associated with his early release.
“This decision reflects the commitment of the FCS to uphold the principles of justice, rehabilitation, and reintegration, as stipulated by the Corrections Act.”
The Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) confirms that former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has been granted early release as of today, in accordance with Section 46 (3) of the Corrections Act. This decision follows a comprehensive review of his application, which was processed in line with the relevant legal provisions governing early release and supervised reintegration.
Section 46 (3) of the Corrections Act allows for early release of inmates based on specific criteria that ensure both the security of the community and the facilitation of an inmate’s reintegration. All requirements were rigorously assessed, including eligibility criteria, conditions for release, and supervisory measures in place, in accordance with the guidelines established under FCS regulations.
Oversight of Reintegration
The Fiji Corrections Service will continue to oversee Mr Bainimarama’s reintegration to ensure compliance with all conditions associated with his early release. This decision reflects the commitment of the FCS to uphold the principles of justice, rehabilitation, and reintegration, as stipulated by the Corrections Act.
We thank the public for their continued support of the Fiji Corrections Service and our efforts to maintain transparency, accountability, and public safety in the administration of all correctional policies.
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