Six inmates who were serving life sentences have received Presidential Pardons and have been released after spending 15 to 20 years in prison. This significant event took place last week, marking a new chapter in their lives, as they were greeted by officers from the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) upon their release and joyfully reunited with their families.
The pardoned individuals are Arneel Chandar Goundar, Nadim Pauliasi Delaibatiki, Tiko Uate, Tafizul Rahman, Francis Narayan, and Timoci Ravurabota, hailing from various regions across Fiji, including Navo, Arts Village, Dratabu, Drasa, Westfield, and Nailega.
In a thoughtful farewell speech, Acting Commissioner of Corrections Mr. Sevuloni Naucukidi congratulated these men on their accomplishment but emphasized the heavy responsibility that comes with their newfound freedom. He expressed gratitude for their commitment to the rehabilitation programs during their incarceration, where they took on roles ranging from work leaders in the tailor shop to gang leaders on the farms, and even artists at the correctional facility’s gallery.
“Let me warn you that the world out there is different from the one you left years ago. Go be with your families and stay away from the things that brought you here to us,” Mr. Naucukidi cautioned, reminding them to be mindful of the challenges they may face upon reintegration into society.
The decision to grant these men a Presidential Pardon stemmed from recommendations by their commanding officers, who recognized them as exemplary inmates. The Mercy Commission played a key role in this process, evaluating their conduct while in custody, the lengths of their sentences, and the circumstances of their original offenses.
This development not only reflects the commitment to rehabilitation within the corrections system but also represents an optimistic shift towards reintegration and second chances for those who have taken steps to change their lives. The release of these men provides hope for their families and the broader community, showcasing that rehabilitation and personal growth can lead to a fresh start.