Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has indicated that he will initiate an investigation into the relationship between Ifereimi Vasu, the Minister for iTaukei Affairs, and his business partner, Jason Zhong, should the matter be formally brought to his attention. This statement comes in light of recent revelations regarding Zhong’s criminal history, which includes convictions for sex and drug trafficking over the past two decades. Notably, Zhong co-owns a farming business with Vasu.
The call for an investigation follows a report by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), which referenced a 2020 police document profiling Zhong as a potential member of a local organized crime group. Although Prime Minister Rabuka stated that he has not yet received any formal reports on the situation, he is prepared to discuss the matter directly with Vasu.
The OCCRP’s investigation revealed that police sources confirmed the existence of a police briefing document that was seen by former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Commissioner of Police Sitiveni Qiliho. In addition to his criminal background, Zhong is reportedly facing separate allegations from Fiji’s anti-corruption commission for bribing officials of the iTaukei Land Trust Board, which oversees land leases for traditional clans in Fiji.
Despite these troubles, Zhong has maintained a close friendship and business partnership with Vasu, evident from their joint establishment of a ginger farming business in 2017. This relationship has been publicly acknowledged, with the Agriculture Ministry previously promoting their partnership as a success story.
Recent reports also indicated that both Vasu and Zhong were seen boarding a flight to Hong Kong, with Zhong having obtained permission to travel under specific conditions. Vasu confirmed that the trip was to commemorate the anniversary of Zhong’s father’s burial in China.
As this situation unfolds, both the government and Fiji’s citizens remain watchful. The potential investigation signals a commitment to transparency and accountability in public office, which could lead to enhanced governance in Fiji.
It is hoped that necessary investigations will promote a culture of integrity within the government and deter any corrupt practices that could undermine public trust. Such actions reflect a growing concern for ethical leadership and could pave the way for strengthened institutions in the country.
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