The Ministry of iTaukei Affairs has moved to initiate legal action over what it describes as “false, malicious and defamatory” claims made by its Permanent Secretary, Jone Navakamocea, against Minister Ifereimi Vasu, the Ministry confirmed on Tuesday. In a statement, the Ministry denied the allegations levelled by Navakamocea and said it has formally referred the matter to legal counsel with instructions to pursue “all possible legal avenues” and begin proceedings “as soon as practicable.”
The Ministry warned that any legal action will not be limited to the original source of the claims, saying proceedings will extend to “any individual or party who shares, republishes, or adds to false and defamatory claims.” The move signals a firm stance against what the Ministry called baseless attacks and misinformation that it says risk undermining public institutions and eroding public confidence in office holders and the civil service.
Alongside the legal referral, the Ministry has referred issues concerning Navakamocea’s conduct, performance and employment to the Public Service Commission. Those matters, the Ministry said, will be dealt with in accordance with the established disciplinary processes and relevant laws governing the public service, indicating potential administrative as well as legal consequences for the Permanent Secretary if the inquiries substantiate any wrongdoing.
The statement framed the actions as necessary to protect the integrity of the Office of the Minister and to uphold standards of governance. It stressed that while the Ministry remains open to constructive feedback and responsible dialogue aimed at improving service delivery to the iTaukei people, it will take serious action against unfounded allegations and reckless public commentary because of their harmful potential to public trust.
This development is the latest escalation in what began as an internal dispute between the Ministry’s leadership and its permanent secretary. By moving quickly to involve legal counsel and the Public Service Commission, the Ministry appears intent on addressing both the reputational harm it says has already occurred and deterring further dissemination of the disputed claims.
The Ministry reiterated that, despite the ongoing legal and administrative actions, it remains focused on delivering its mandate and advancing key reforms for iTaukei communities. No timetable was given for when court proceedings or the PSC disciplinary process would be formally initiated or concluded.
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