More than half of inmates at Naboro Maximum Correction Centre are on hunger strike, according to a social media post citing a serving prisoner, Tevita Qaqanaivalu, and published by a family member of the inmate. The post says the inmates began the protest yesterday to demand an end to what they describe as inhumane treatment and systemic neglect within the facility. It also claims inmates are confined to their cells for up to 24 hours a day without access to rehabilitation programs.
The social media message quotes Qaqanaivalu as speaking on behalf of the striking prisoners, alleging that the punishment should come from imprisonment rather than exacerbated suffering and calling for life in prison to resemble normal life and address social and cultural needs. The inmates’ demands include the removal and investigation of senior officers at the maximum prison. They are also seeking the intervention of the Minister of Justice, the Attorney General, the Prime Minister, and the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission to address their concerns. The Fiji Times has said it is seeking comment from the Fiji Corrections Service.
Context from similar cases at the same facility in recent days shows a pattern in which inmates have protested removals from kitchen duties, citing disputes over food supply management as a trigger. In those instances, authorities have emphasized ongoing medical and psychological support, counselling from senior officers, and the involvement of spiritual leaders to provide guidance. Officials have repeatedly stressed that the health and welfare of inmates remain a top priority and that decisions should be made through established channels, not through duress.
Health professionals and prison officials typically monitor inmates on hunger strike closely, with doctors, psychologists, and spiritual advisers often visiting to assess wellbeing and provide care. The Minister for Justice and the Human Rights Commission have been informed in prior cases, and in several instances the FCS has noted that hunger strikes are not uncommon within correctional settings, while reiterating its commitment to safety and orderly processes.
What this may indicate is a broader call for reforms in how conditions and grievances are managed inside the system. If sustained, the strike could pressure authorities to revisit confinement practices, access to rehabilitation programs, and how grievances are addressed at high levels of government.
The situation remains fluid, with the corrections service expected to provide updates and comment as conversations with inmates or their representatives progress. Observers will be watching to see whether formal discussions with senior officials or independent bodies can lead to a resolution that respects inmates’ rights while ensuring safety and security for both prisoners and staff.
Summary: A large hunger strike at Naboro Maximum Correction Centre underscores ongoing tensions around confinement practices and access to rehabilitation, with inmates calling for accountability at high levels of government and for their humane treatment to be restored through dialogue and formal processes.
A hopeful note: The pattern of prior engagement—medical oversight, counselling, and involvement of spiritual leaders—offers a framework for constructive dialogue. If authorities respond with transparency and a credible plan to address the concerns, there is potential for a peaceful resolution that improves conditions while maintaining prison safety.
Additional comment: Readers should expect updates as official statements are released and as negotiations or investigations unfold.
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