The Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) has reaffirmed that its operations are guided by human rights principles, following a meeting with the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (FHRADC) to address outstanding complaints and improve collaboration.
The meeting was held yesterday and brought together Acting Commissioner of Corrections Auta Moceisuva and FHRADC Commissioner Alefina Vuki, along with Investigations and Senior Complaints Officer Tiko Nobis.
Mr Moceisuva acknowledged that changes in leadership and internal processes had affected the working relationship between the two institutions, but assured the Commission that the Corrections Service is committed to closer cooperation going forward.
“I know we have had queries brought to us by you that have often been delayed due to changes in our processes, but what I must assure you is that we are always working under the guidance of the human rights principles,” Mr Moceisuva said.
He added that the FCS is coordinating with the Office of the Human Rights Commissioner to strengthen collaboration.
“They have asked for a combined collaboration with us and the FHRADC to highlight key areas where they can offer assistance to help us achieve our priority areas, particularly in ensuring that we operate according to the required standards,” he said.
During the meeting, Mr Moceisuva also outlined the basic operations of prisons and remand centres, explaining the differences between policy on paper and the realities on the ground.
He highlighted varying inmate behaviours under incarceration and how these factors influence daily operations and management.
