The ongoing hunger strike at the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) has entered its fifth day, with 11 of the original 25 inmates reportedly ending their protest.
Families of the inmates are calling for an independent investigation into the grievances that sparked the strike.
According to sources close to the situation, the inmates, currently housed at the Maximum Security Correctional Centre (MSCC), began the hunger strike to protest what they described as “violations of their rights” by FCS officers.
Sources alleged that several standard operating procedures (SOPs) at the facility contradicted the laws governing prisons in Fiji.
Among the complaints raised were restricted visitation hours that fall short of legally mandated times, limited access to daily exercise, with reports indicating inmates receive only 25 to 30 minutes of exercise once a week instead of the required one hour daily and inadequate provision of toiletries.
Inmates claimed they are given disposable razors rather than standard shaving equipment, and that some who grow beards due to insufficient shaving supplies face disciplinary action, including physical punishment.
Family members, who wish to remain anonymous due to the victimisation of the inmates, said prisoners’ concerns were being acknowledged but that responses were often delayed or dismissed, exacerbating frustrations.
Calls have been made for the Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, and the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission to investigate the issues raised by inmates and their families.
Questions sent to Mr Turaga and FHRADC remained unanswered.
The FCS had previously stated that the Maximum Security facility operates under stricter regimes aimed at curbing contraband and enforcing discipline but has confirmed that investigations into the hunger strike complaints were ongoing.
The situation remains fluid, with the hunger strike continuing under close supervision by prison authorities.