Two inmates at a facility run by the Fiji Corrections Service have started a hunger strike that commenced on September 20, 2024. According to an official statement from the FCS, the inmates, who had been working in the kitchen, were temporarily removed from their positions following a disagreement over food supply management, prompting an internal investigation.
The inmates are dissatisfied with the decision to take them off kitchen duties and are demanding to be reinstated. Despite efforts by senior officers, healthcare professionals, and other support personnel to counsel them, the inmates have chosen to continue with their hunger strike.
In addition, the FCS is reaching out to spiritual leaders from their respective faiths to provide further assistance and guidance. The organization emphasizes that the health and safety of the inmates are their primary concern.
Medical personnel are closely monitoring the inmates’ health, and all necessary measures are being taken to protect their well-being during the hunger strike. The Minister for Justice and the Human Rights Commission have been informed about the situation.
The Fiji Corrections Service remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all inmates while addressing grievances through proper internal channels. They are committed to resolving this issue and will issue updates as needed.