Qarase expected to be released from prison as early as today

Former Prime Minister, Laisenia Qarase is expected to be released from prison as early as today.

Fiji Corrections Services spokesperson, Ana Tudrau earlier told Fijivillage that the earliest possible release date from prison for Qarase is 2nd April this year.

Tudrau said there is a remission of one third of the sentence which means that Qarase is likely to serve 8 out of the 12 months of his prison sentence.

However Tudrau said the latest possible release date for Qarase is August 3rd.

Qarase's lawyer, Tupou Draunidalo has refused to make any comments.

When contacted by Fijivillage, Corrections Commissioner, Lt Colonel Ifereimi Vasu said he will not make any further comments and will leave it at what has already been reported. 

Meanwhile the Court of Appeal will rule on notice in relation to Qarase's conviction and sentence.

Qarase's lawyer, Remy Van De Wiel has challenged substantial facts used to convict Qarase last year of abuse of office and discharging his duty with respect to property in which he had a private interest.

The offences relate to activities in the 1990s when Qarase was a director of Fijian Holdings Limited.


Story by: Vijay Narayan