Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad has raised concerns about overcrowding at the Korovou Remand Centre, revealing that the facility is currently housing 287 detainees—well above its approved capacity of 200.
Speaking during the Yellow Ribbon Walk celebrations at Syria Park in Nausori, Professor Prasad said fixing this issue is a top priority for the government.
He highlighted that $62.5 million has been allocated in the 2025/2026 National Budget to upgrade correctional facilities, speed up court processes, and address overcrowding in remand centres across the country.
The Deputy Prime Minister says the coalition government is focusing on delivering efficient and cost-effective prison services in the medium term.
Professor Prasad says this includes strengthening rehabilitation programmes to help inmates reintegrate into society.
He says improving infrastructure and prison design is also a priority, with the aim of creating a secure but rehabilitative environment. Plans are also in place to develop incentives for re-skilling offenders and supporting their reintegration journey.
