Six inmates who had been serving life sentences have recently been granted presidential pardons and are now back in their communities after spending between 15 and 20 years in prison. One significant figure among them is Pauliasi Delaibatiki, who reflects on the uncertainty of returning home after two decades of incarceration. Delaibatiki expressed how he no longer recognizes the world he left behind and carries a profound sense of remorse for his past actions. His time in prison, however, has transformed him; he’s learned discipline and purpose, diverging from the rebellious youth he once was.
During his time behind bars, Delaibatiki developed his artistic skills, becoming a prominent artist recognized by the Fiji Corrections Service. He produced paintings and crafted wooden artifacts that are displayed at the Tagimoucia Art Gallery and the Medium Corrections Centre. He attributes his artistic journey to Officer Jane Ricketts, who inspired him to pursue his passion. Looking ahead, Delaibatiki plans to continue his artwork and aims to set up a small studio at the Pacific Harbour Arts and Cultural Centre in Deuba.
The other inmates granted pardons include Arneel Chandar Goundar, Tiko Uate, Tafizul Rahman, Francis Narayan, and Timoci Ravurabota, who all earned their releases through a series of good conduct and active participation in various rehabilitation programs. Recommendations from their commanding officers highlighted their discipline and contributions to productive work programs, which included leadership roles in tailoring, agriculture, and the arts.
Acting Commissioner of Corrections Sevuloni Naucukidi praised the men for their rehabilitation journey, stating they had played vital roles in enhancing the programs within the correctional system. He reminded them that with their newfound freedom comes a great responsibility and urged them to stay connected with their families while avoiding past mistakes.
The Mercy Commission was responsible for reviewing the conduct and circumstances surrounding each inmate’s offenses before granting the pardons. The Fiji Corrections Service has expressed its best wishes for the successful reintegration of these former inmates and has called on the community to support their return to society. This initiative reflects a hopeful step towards rehabilitation, emphasizing the potential for transformation and the importance of community support in helping individuals make a fresh start after serving their sentences.