Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged that he did not submit a formal request for the release of former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Commissioner of Police Sitiveni Qiliho to allow them to attend the Reconciliation and Restoration program of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF).
Speaking at the formal event held last Saturday at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, Rabuka mentioned he had hoped to see Bainimarama and Qiliho present. However, Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Jalesi Nakarawa clarified on Monday that no official requests had been communicated for their release.
According to the Corrections Service Act of 2006, the power to grant short-term release lies solely with the Commissioner. Rabuka further explained his situation by stating, “That’s correct, there was no proper communication. When I went to the Queen Elizabeth Barracks, I saw that they were not there, I asked if they could be released. I asked the President, but neither the President nor I have the authority to release them; this power rests with the Prison Commissioner for Corrections Services.”
The Corrections Services Act empowers the Commissioner to allow prisoner releases for purposes such as attending courses, community engagement, or other arrangements that facilitate the prisoners’ reintegration into society.
This incident highlights the complexities of communication between government officials and correctional services, emphasizing the need for clearer protocols in decision-making processes. Rabuka’s desire to engage with former leaders underscores the importance of reconciliation in Fiji’s political landscape. Instead of viewing this situation negatively, it can be seen as an opportunity for improved dialogue between various branches of government, which could ultimately foster unity and understanding within the nation.
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