Five of eight inmates granted presidential pardons have officially received their pardons as they prepare to return to their families and communities.

The five are Aisake Qiolele, Josefa Tukana, Mohammed Harun Khan, Sailosi Rokotuiwalevu and Tang Lu.

The pardons were formally presented by the Acting Commissioner of Corrections, alongside senior Corrections officials.

The inmates were encouraged to view their release as a new beginning and to carry forward the discipline and positive values gained during their time in the Corrections system.

They were also urged to make better choices, remain grounded in their faith and use the opportunity to rebuild their lives with responsibility and purpose.

The remaining three inmates granted presidential pardons will receive theirs at their respective corrections centres.

Luke Dikevitukana will receive his pardon at Ba Corrections Centre, Mohammed Shaheen at Lautoka Corrections Centre and Saula Rokobukai at Labasa Corrections Centre.

Corrections officials wished the recipients well as they begin the next chapter of their lives and reintegrate into their families and communities.