Eight inmates have been granted presidential pardons, with five formally receiving their pardons in Suva today as they prepare to return to their families and communities.
The Fiji Corrections Service said the pardons were presented during a ceremony led by the Acting Commissioner of Corrections.
The five inmates who received their pardons today are Aisake Qiolele, Josefa Tukana, Mohammed Harun Khan, Sailosi Rokotuiwalevu and Tang Lu.
The Acting Assistant Commissioner of Corrections Operations and the Southern and Central/Eastern divisional supervisors joined the Acting Commissioner in presenting the pardons and extending their best wishes to the recipients.
The remaining three pardoned inmates will receive their pardons at the corrections centres where they are currently held.
Luke Dikevitukana will receive his pardon at the Ba Corrections Centre, Mohammed Shaheen at the Lautoka Corrections Centre and Saula Rokobukai at the Labasa Corrections Centre.
Corrections officials told the recipients that their release should be viewed not as an end, but as a new beginning.
They were encouraged to carry forward the discipline and positive values developed during their time in the Corrections system and to make better choices as they reintegrate into society.
The pardoned inmates were also urged to maintain their faith and avoid returning to circumstances that could lead them back into incarceration.
The Fiji Corrections Service said the recipients now had an opportunity to rebuild their lives and reconnect with their families and communities.
They were encouraged to use their second chance to pursue lives marked by responsibility, purpose and positive change.
