Frank Bainimarama in December 2022. Photo: RNZ
Former Fiji prime minister Frank Bainimarama has been released from prison, only six months into his 12 months sentence, the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) said via a statement on on Friday.
Bainimarama was jailed in May, alongside the former police chief Sitiveni Qiliho, for perverting the course of justice.
"The Fiji Corrections Service confirms that former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has been granted early release as of today (Friday), in accordance with section 46(3) of the Corrections Act," it said.
"This decision follows a comprehensive review of his application, which was processed in line with the relevant legal provisions governing early release and supervised reintegration."
It said that the section 46(3) of the Corrections Act, allows for early release of inmates based on specific criteria that ensure both the security of the community and the facilitation of an inmates reintegration.
"All requirements were rigorously assessed, including eligibility criteria, conditions for release, and supervisory measures in place, in accordance with the guidelines established under FCS regulations."
The FCS will continue to oversee Bainimarama's reintegration to ensure compliance with all conditions associated with his early release.
"This decision reflects the commitment of the FCS to uphold the principles of justice, rehabilitation, and reintegration, as stipulated by the Corrections Act."