FCS responds to artist’s claims, confirms $20k due for payment after records review

The Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) has issued a strong response following public claims by former inmate Pauliasi Delaibatiki, confirming that more than $20,000 in outstanding art earnings will be paid after a detailed reconciliation process.

Mr Delaibatiki sparked public debate on Tuesday, 24 March, after sharing a video on social media alleging he had not received full payment for artwork he produced during his time working with the Tagimaucia Art Gallery while in custody. 

In a statement, the FCS said the concerns raised online came despite an ongoing review process that had already been explained to Mr Delaibatiki prior to his release. 

FCS noted that Mr Delaibatiki was aware that incomplete and poorly maintained records from previous gallery management required verification before any final payments could be processed.

The corrections authority said its finance team undertook a thorough audit, combining available gallery records with evidence provided by Mr Delaibatiki himself.

Following the reconciliation, the FCS confirmed that Mr Delaibatiki earned a total of $28,423.20 from his artwork. 

Of this amount, $7,517.65 had already been withdrawn, leaving a balance of $20,905.55 now approved for payout.

The organisation defended the time taken to complete the process, stressing that accuracy and financial compliance were critical to avoid mismanagement risks.

While acknowledging Delaibatiki’s frustrations, the corrections service emphasized that it would not be pressured by social media narratives to bypass established procedures.