“Change begins when we take actions, forgiveness follows when we choose empathy over judgement, and acceptance completes this journey when we open our communities to welcome back those who have made amends.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Hon. Biman Prasad, said this at yesterday's (19.07.25) Yellow Ribbon Walk 2025 organised by the Fiji Corrections Service at Syria Park, Nausori.
Themed “Walk for Action—Change, Forgive, Accept,” the event brought together families, communities, and members of the Fiji Corrections Service in a show of support for second chances and the reintegration of former inmates into society.
DPM Prasad emphasised that rehabilitation and reintegration are not solely the responsibility of the Fiji Corrections Service but a national duty. He said the Yellow Ribbon initiative aligns with the Coalition Government’s development vision of “Empowering the People of Fiji through Unity.”
“The aim of the Yellow Ribbon Program is for ex-offenders to return to their homes and contribute positively to our society. I see this program as a wise and necessary investment—one that returns dignity, reduces recidivism, and strengthens our nation’s social fabric,” he said.
Hon. Prasad highlighted ongoing government investments into improving prison infrastructure, rehabilitative programs, and capacity-building for correction officers. He stated that Fiji currently meets international standards with an officer-to-prisoner ratio of 1:4 and acknowledged challenges such as overcrowding in remand centres, stressing the need to address case backlogs in the judicial system.
The DPM also commended the opening of the new Fiji Corrections Service Northern Division Headquarters in Labasa, which will enhance service delivery and rehabilitation support in the Northern Division.