The Corrections Service Bill has been passed in Parliament which states that offenders of serious crimes such as rape, aggravated robbery, manslaughter and other sexual offences for whom non-parole periods have been fixed by the court, serve the entire term of the non-parole period before applying for parole.
While speaking on the bill, Attorney General, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum says this will also ensure that the independence of the judiciary is maintained.
Leader of Opposition Sitiveni Rabuka opposed the bill, saying that it may be a very good amendment but believes we need more time to really look at it and consult with those that have voted them into parliament.
SODELPA MP, Niko Nawaikula also opposed the bill saying that we need to hear the prisoners themselves and experts because they know what the Ministers do not know.
Meanwhile Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Mereseini Vuniwaqa supported the bill saying it will ensure people who offend against women and children get a non-parole period thet they must serve before coming out into the society again.
