Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama is now eligible to seek early release from prison, similar to any other inmate, following the clarification from Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Jalesi Nakarawa. This announcement comes after Mr. Bainimarama was granted early release, effective Friday, in accordance with Section 46 (3) of the Corrections Act.
Mr. Bainimarama was sentenced to a year in prison in May for perverting the course of justice, alongside former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho, and has completed six months of his sentence. There were concerns from the public regarding the rationale behind his early release, but Commissioner Nakarawa reiterated that it is a routine procedure for inmates to apply for such privileges. He noted that Mr. Bainimarama’s request was subjected to a thorough review by the appropriate board.
The Commissioner also dismissed rumors suggesting that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka had a hand in facilitating this early release. Mr. Rabuka emphasized that the decision was a standard application of the law, stating clearly that he had not made any requests regarding this matter.
Furthermore, past precedents were noted, such as the early release of former Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, who served seven months of his sentence before being released in 2013. Mr. Rabuka expressed hope last week that Mr. Bainimarama’s release could contribute to national reconciliation, but reasserted that it was purely a procedural decision.
According to a statement from the Fiji Corrections Service, the decision for early release followed an extensive evaluation aligned with legal criteria focused on community safety and the inmate’s successful reintegration into society. The Corrections Service confirmed that all necessary conditions and standards for release were met.
In conclusion, Mr. Bainimarama’s early release highlights the operational protocols within the corrections system that balance justice with rehabilitation efforts. With proper supervision and monitoring of his reintegration process, this decision highlights the commitment to not only uphold the law but also support former inmates as they transition back into society.
This development presents an opportunity for growth and reconciliation within the broader context of Fijian politics, as it encourages the reintegration of individuals back into the community with the potential for positive contributions moving forward.
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