Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged that he did not formally request the release of former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama or former Commissioner of Police Sitiveni Qiliho to attend the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Reconciliation and Restoration program. During the event held at Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua last Saturday, Rabuka indicated that he had hoped to have both men present.
However, Monday’s statements from Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Jalesi Nakarawa clarified that no formal requests for their release had been communicated to him. According to the Corrections Service Act 2006, the authority to grant short-term releases rests solely with the Commissioner. Rabuka explained that upon noticing the absence of Bainimarama and Qiliho at the ceremony, he inquired about their possible release but recognized that neither he nor the President had the jurisdiction to facilitate this; such authority lies with the Commissioner of Corrections.
The Corrections Service Act 2006 specifies that the Commissioner has the power to grant short-term release to prisoners for various purposes, including community reintegration programs and other arrangements designed to support their transition back into society.
This situation highlights the complexities of the correctional system and the importance of communication among government officials. It also serves as a reminder of the need for clear procedures and processes in matters concerning justice and rehabilitation.
As the country moves forward, the government may focus on clearer communication strategies and collaboration with correctional services to ensure that such events can be more inclusively planned in the future. This may contribute to a more cohesive approach toward reconciliation and the eventual reintegration of former leaders into society.
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