Former Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama has been released from prison six months into his 12-month sentence, according to a statement issued by the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS).
Bainimarama was jailed in May alongside former police chief Sitiveni Qiliho after being convicted of attempting to pervert the course of justice in a police investigation linked to the University of the South Pacific.
The FCS confirmed that Bainimarama’s early release was granted under section 46(3) of the Corrections Act, which allows for early release based on specific criteria aimed at protecting community safety and supporting inmate reintegration.
A “comprehensive review” of Bainimarama’s application found that all requirements, including eligibility and supervisory measures, were met.
“The decision to release Mr Bainimarama aligns with the FCS’s commitment to justice, rehabilitation, and reintegration as outlined in the Corrections Act,” the FCS said.
The statement added that FCS will continue to monitor Bainimarama’s reintegration to ensure compliance with all conditions of his release.
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