Fiji is addressing growing public safety concerns linked to repeat offenders by establishing a new Parole Board, which will play a vital role in determining parole eligibility and facilitating the safe reintegration of inmates into society.
The Minister for Justice and Acting Attorney-General, Siromi Turaga, emphasized that the Board will serve as a cornerstone to balance the goals of rehabilitation and community protection. This innovative approach is expected to strengthen the rehabilitation process while simultaneously safeguarding public safety, aiming to mitigate the risks posed by repeat offenders.
Selina Kuruleca, the Permanent Secretary for Justice, assured that transparency, accountability, and fairness will guide the newly implemented system. The Board, which is structured to mirror New Zealand’s successful model and established with the assistance of the New Zealand Department of Corrections, aims to enhance the oversight and effectiveness of parole processes.
Leading the Board is Chairperson Justice Jiten Singh, alongside members Peter Schultz, Aporosa Rageci, Dr. Litia Narube, and Kameli Ratuvakalevulevuya. During their inaugural meeting, they received a comprehensive briefing about the emerging parole system, highlighting the collaborative efforts between justice and corrections agencies. Acting Commissioner of Corrections, Auta Moceisuva, and other senior officers from the Fiji Corrections Service were present to support this initiative.
With the Ministry of Justice serving as the Secretariat, the new Parole Board is positioned to lay out necessary legislative and operational procedures. Their mission is to effectively decrease repeat offending, thereby ensuring both community protection and a fair, accountable parole process.
This development signals a proactive step by the Fijian government towards enhancing public safety while also recognizing the importance of rehabilitation in reducing recidivism. The aim is to create a safer environment for all citizens by focusing on systematic reforms that benefit both individuals and the wider community.