In response to recent discussions on social media, the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) has provided clarification regarding the early release of former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama. The FCS emphasizes that his release is in accordance with the established procedures set forth by the Corrections Act.
According to a statement from the FCS, Bainimarama’s early release is part of a legal framework that is uniformly applied to all prisoners, ensuring equitable treatment and adherence to legal rights. The FCS explained that when inmates are admitted, their sentences are calculated with a standard one-third remission period, as outlined by law. In Bainimarama’s case, his one-year sentence was shortened by four months, leading to an expected release date in early January 2025.
The statement further clarified that Bainimarama, like other inmates, requested early release, which was processed through the standard protocols. Consequently, he has been permitted to complete the remainder of his sentence within the community, mandated to report daily to his place of employment under FCS supervision.
The FCS addressed public comparisons between Bainimarama’s case and other notable instances, such as that of the late Laisenia Qarase, noting that there has been a change in FCS management since those decisions. The agency assured that present procedures are executed without political influence, emphasizing that Bainimarama, like all other prisoners, is subject to the law without exception.
The FCS reinforced its dedication to upholding the rule of law, stating its commitment to manage all prisoners fairly and responsibly according to the Corrections Act. They also urged the public to respect the legal process and acknowledged that the FCS operates without prejudice under Fijian law.
This clarification serves to reinforce the importance of fairness in the justice system, highlighting the FCS’s commitment to impartiality. While some may view the situation through a political lens, the FCS’s adherence to legal standards reflects a commitment to the integrity of the corrections process in Fiji.
In summary, the FCS maintains that the early release of Bainimarama follows established legal frameworks applicable to all inmates, underscoring a commitment to justice and equality in handling cases regardless of their political standing.
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