The Fiji Corrections Service has clarified that the release of former prime minister Voreqe Bainimarama aligned with standard procedures provided under the Corrections Act.
A statement from FCS said this release followed a legal framework that routinely applied to all prisoners in similar situations, ensuring fair treatment and respect for legal rights.
“Upon admission, every prisoner’s sentence is calculated with a standard one-third remission, as stipulated by law,” it said.
“In Mr Bainimarama’s case, his one-year sentence was reduced by four months under this provision, establishing his release date as early January 2025.
“Like other prisoners, he exercised his right to apply for early release, a request reviewed through the usual protocols. He was approved to serve the remainder of his sentence in the community, during which he will report daily to his place of employment while the FCS monitors his compliance.”
FSC said the public have compared the cases between Mr Bainimarama’s release and that of previous high-profile cases, such as Mr Qarase.
“It is important to note that FCS management has changed since those decisions and current processes are conducted without political bias,” it said.
“Mr Bainimarama, like all individuals in our custody, was convicted by the court and deserves to be treated in accordance with the law. His political history does not exempt or alter our legal obligations to provide impartial treatment to every inmate.
“The FCS remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all prisoners are managed fairly and responsibly in line with the Corrections Act. We ask the public to respect the legal process and understand that the FCS is bound to operate within the laws of Fiji without prejudice.”
