Commissioner to Review Act Amid Concerns over Prisoner Interactions with Public

Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner Dr Jalesi Nakarawa has advised his legal team to review the Corrections Service Act.

This is to give him powers to take legal action against members of the public who interact with inmates outside court houses or in public domain.

Dr Nakarawa was referring to incidents involving the former Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama, who is facing one year in prison for office of abuse.

In recent court appearances, Bainimarama is often seen shaking hands and giving hi-fives to members of the public. On one occasion he allegedly signed a document outside court.

Dr Nakarawa said the current law allowed him to take disciplinary proceedings against his officers and the former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama for breach of Act.

“We spoke to Mr Bainimarama and he apologised,” Dr Nakarawa said.

“When we escort convicted inmates to the court the rules apply same for everyone, including people of high profile.

“Our officers find it difficult taking inmates out in public.

“We can charge the officers and Mr Bainimarama but not the members of the public.”

Feedback: shratikan@fijisun.com.fj