Minister for iTaukei Affairs Iferemi Vasu has moved to take legal action against his permanent secretary, Jone Navakamocea, after Mr Navakamocea publicly alleged a connection between Mr Vasu and convicted drug and sex trafficker Jason Zhong and described the minister as a “coward” with a damaging reputation. The ministry confirmed it has formally referred the matter to legal counsel and instructed lawyers to pursue “all possible legal avenues” and initiate proceedings “as soon as practicable.”
In a statement, the ministry said the allegations are “categorically denied” and stressed the statements were not only untrue but damaging to the credibility of government and public trust in state institutions. “Following a full assessment of the statements made and their impact on the integrity of the office of the minister and the ministry, we confirm that the matter has now been formally referred to our legal counsel,” the ministry said, adding that its instructions to counsel are “very clear, to vigorously pursue all possible legal avenues.”
The ministry also warned that legal action may extend beyond Mr Navakamocea to include “any individual or party who shares or republishes the claims.” That notice signals the ministry’s intent to pursue not just the original source of the statements but also those who amplify them, a move that could affect journalists, social media users or others who have circulated the allegations.
Separately, the ministry confirmed that Mr Navakamocea’s conduct, performance and employment within the civil service have been referred to the Public Service Commission (PSC) for review. “These issues would be addressed in accordance with established disciplinary processes and relevant laws governing the public service,” the ministry said, indicating that potential administrative or disciplinary measures could follow the PSC’s assessment.
The allegations against Mr Vasu involve a figure — Jason Zhong — who has been publicly described as a convicted drug and sex trafficker, a detail the ministry highlighted to underscore the severity of the charge. By linking a sitting minister to a convicted trafficker, the ministry argued, the statements risk undermining public confidence not only in the minister’s office but in broader state institutions, at a time when the ministry says it remains focused on its reform agenda for the iTaukei people.
While reaffirming a commitment to constructive feedback and open dialogue, the ministry stressed it would not tolerate what it described as misinformation or baseless attacks that “undermine public institutions.” The immediate next steps are for legal counsel to prepare proceedings and for the PSC to complete its review of Mr Navakamocea’s employment matters; the ministry said both processes would be carried out in line with legal and disciplinary frameworks.
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