Bainimarama’s Early Release Sparks Public Curiosity

Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama is now eligible for early release, similar to other inmates in Fiji. This clarification comes from Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Jalesi Nakarawa, following the announcement that Bainimarama has been granted early release effective Friday, in accordance with Section 46 (3) of the Corrections Act.

Bainimarama was sentenced to 12 months in prison in May for perverting the course of justice, alongside former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho, and has served six months of his sentence. The public has raised questions regarding the reasons behind his early release. Commissioner Nakarawa addressed these concerns, stating that inmates regularly apply for early release and insisted that Bainimarama’s case was reviewed like any other.

Additionally, rumors suggesting that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka requested Bainimarama’s early release were dismissed by Rabuka, who emphasized that this is a standard legal procedure. “It is part of the processes of the law,” he stated, while also expressing hope for reconciliation.

The Fiji Corrections Service explained that the decision followed a thorough review of Bainimarama’s application, adhering to the legal framework governing early release and supervised reintegration. This process emphasizes community safety while also facilitating the inmate’s reintegration into society. The FCS assured that all criteria concerning eligibility, release conditions, and supervision were met in compliance with legal regulations.

The FCS will continue to monitor Bainimarama’s reintegration to ensure that he adheres to the terms of his early release. This decision reflects the FCS’s dedication to justice, rehabilitation, and community reintegration as mandated by the Corrections Act.

This development could symbolize a step towards healing and reconciliation within the political landscape of Fiji, illustrating that the justice system is functioning as intended while supporting programs designed to help former inmates reintegrate into society positively.