The Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) has responded to public concerns regarding the weekend release of inmates, clarifying that such short-term releases are part of the legal framework established under Section 47 and Regulation 22 of the Corrections Act 2006. These releases are not exceptions but are granted to eligible inmates who demonstrate good behavior and significant progress in rehabilitation programs.
The FCS emphasized that each inmate’s release is subject to stringent evaluations that consider their conduct, risk assessments, and participation in rehabilitation initiatives. Importantly, this process is uniformly applied to all inmates who meet the criteria, ensuring that no individual receives special or preferential treatment.
The objective of these temporary releases is to facilitate the successful reintegration of inmates into society, allowing them to restore relationships, engage in productive community activities, and adjust to life outside prison gradually. To safeguard public safety, inmates on temporary leave are closely monitored, and any failure to comply with set conditions can lead to an immediate revocation of their leave privileges.
Commissioner of Corrections, Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa, has reaffirmed the FCS’s commitment to upholding justice and rehabilitation, balancing the rights of inmates with the need to ensure community safety. This structured approach reflects the agency’s ongoing dedication to transparency in its operations and processes.
The importance of rehabilitation in the criminal justice system cannot be overstated, as it offers hope not only for inmates to reform but also for society to benefit from reduced recidivism. By fostering environments where individuals can reintegrate positively, the FCS aims to enhance community safety and trust in the correctional system. This commitment to fair treatment and accountability is crucial as Fiji navigates the complex relationship between justice, rehabilitation, and public safety.
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