Fiji’s Minister for Justice and Acting Attorney-General, Siromi Turaga, has expressed his support and optimism regarding a recently passed law that will expunge and seal minor criminal records. He described the legislation as a “gift of the Parliament of Fiji,” emphasizing the government’s commitment to caring for the nation’s citizens. Turaga articulated a philosophy of forgiveness and the potential for personal change, stating, “People can change, we can forgive them.” This new law is poised to offer a fresh start to individuals who have previously been burdened by minor criminal convictions, potentially improving their future prospects for employment, education, and social reintegration. The expungement process aims to remove these records from public view, effectively sealing them and preventing them from hindering individuals in their pursuit of legitimate opportunities. While the specifics of which “minor criminal records” are eligible for expungement and sealing are detailed within the legislation itself, the overarching intention is to address the long-term consequences of less serious offenses. The Minister’s remarks highlight a rehabilitative approach, suggesting a shift in perspective towards acknowledging that past mistakes, particularly minor ones, should not permanently define an individual’s life. The act of forgiving and allowing for the erasure of these records from a person’s history can have a profound positive impact on their mental well-being and their ability to contribute fully to society. This initiative from the Fijian Parliament underscores a growing global trend towards restorative justice and second chances, recognizing that societal progress is often facilitated by empowering individuals to overcome past challenges. The implementation of such a law is expected to be a significant step towards a more inclusive and forgiving society in Fiji. The government’s “care for them” sentiment, as expressed by Minister Turaga, suggests a broader policy objective of supporting citizens and fostering an environment where rehabilitation is prioritized. By “sealing” these records, the law aims to protect individuals from the stigma and discrimination that often accompany even minor criminal histories. This could translate into increased employability, as potential employers may be less hesitant to hire individuals with expunged records. Furthermore, it could open doors to educational opportunities and other avenues that might have been previously inaccessible. The Minister’s confident and forward-looking statement implies that the government views this as a beneficial development for both the individuals concerned and for Fiji as a whole. The “gift of the Parliament” framing further emphasizes the deliberate and benevolent nature of this legislative action. It signals a commitment to legislative measures that directly benefit the populace and aim to address systemic issues that might be holding segments of the population back. The underlying principle is that society should evolve and adapt, and that its legal frameworks should reflect a capacity for empathy and a belief in redemption. The passing of this law and the Minister’s endorsement of it mark a notable moment in Fiji’s legal and social policy landscape, focusing on second chances and the positive outcomes of forgiveness. Source: Mai TV Fiji
Mai TV Fiji: “This is a gift of the Parliament of Fiji… we care for them. People can change, we can forgive them.” Listen to Fiji’s Minister for Justice and Acting AG Siromi Turaga’s reaction to the passing of the new law that will expunge and seal minor criminal records, including those. #breaking
— @maitvfiji May 1, 2026
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