Bainimarama’s Absence Raises Questions at Fiji’s Military Reconciliation Event

Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged that he did not formally request the release of former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Commissioner of Police Sitiveni Qiliho to attend the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Reconciliation and Restoration program. During the event held at Queen Elizabeth Barracks on Saturday, Mr. Rabuka stated he had hoped for their presence, but later it emerged that no official request had been made to the Fiji Corrections Service.

Jalesi Nakarawa, the Commissioner of Fiji Corrections Service, confirmed on Monday that no formal communication regarding the release of Bainimarama and Qiliho had been received. Under the Corrections Service Act of 2006, the authority to grant short-term releases to prisoners lies solely with the Commissioner.

In further remarks, Mr. Rabuka clarified that there was indeed no proper communication prior to the event regarding their release. He expressed his surprise upon realizing their absence at the event and indicated that he had inquired about the possibility of their release from the President, emphasizing that neither he nor the President has the power to authorize such a release. The authority, he noted, rests with the Commissioner based on requests from the prisoners themselves or their relatives.

The Corrections Service Act empowers the Commissioner to allow prisoners to attend courses or events aimed at their reintegration into society, including supervision by traditional chiefs or community leaders.

This situation highlights the importance of proper communication and procedural adherence within governmental operations. It also underscores the mechanisms in place to facilitate reintegration and reconciliation initiatives, which are crucial for fostering unity and healing in post-conflict societies.

Moving forward, it may be beneficial for the government to establish clearer protocols for these types of requests to ensure effective participation in reconciliation efforts. By strengthening these procedures, Fiji can continue to progress towards a more inclusive and unified future.