The Minister of Tourism, Viliame Gavoka, has stated that legal advice is being sought regarding allegations surrounding a senior Tourism Fiji staff member who is purported to hold a 50% stake in a tour business. This business reportedly offers tours to popular tourist locations in Fiji’s Western Division, raising concerns of a potential conflict of interest in violation of the Tourism Fiji Act 2004.

The allegations, which surfaced on social media, highlight that under Section 9 (3) of the Act, it is stipulated that any officer or staff member of Tourism Fiji must disclose any interest pertaining to the tourism industry to the chief executive, who is then responsible for informing the board or a special committee.

In response to these claims, Minister Gavoka acknowledged his awareness of the situation and expressed confidence that the official involved had not exploited their position for personal gain. “I am assured that the official has not used their position to benefit themselves personally,” Gavoka mentioned.

Tourism Fiji’s CEO, Brent Hill, opted not to engage further with the allegations, describing them as stemming from an anonymous blog post. He firmly believed that the media should refrain from addressing comments made by such anonymous sources and emphasized that the matter is now legally under review.

In light of past instances concerning transparency issues within Tourism Fiji, this development brings attention to the necessity for ethical governance in public organizations. The recent calls for clarity and adherence to proper conduct in tourism oversight parallel concerns raised about previous dual roles held by individuals in related positions. These ongoing discussions underscore the importance of trust in the tourism sector, a key component of Fiji’s economy.

Hopefully, the proceedings will lead to increased transparency and improved practices that bolster the integrity of Tourism Fiji and the broader tourism industry in the country. As the matter unfolds, it is essential for the organization to foster open communication and uphold its commitment to ethical standards, reassuring the public and tourism stakeholders alike.