Vanuatu’s Health Minister, John Still Tari Qetu, was arrested in Port Vila on Wednesday, facing charges of intentional assault and public disorder stemming from an incident last July. The police confirmed that he was taken into custody around midday and subsequently provided a sworn statement.
The complaint was officially lodged in 2024 by a man who detailed how he intervened in a situation where a young woman was being assaulted outside the Grand Hotel & Casino. According to the complainant, Minister Qetu and his driver arrived and proceeded to assault him, with allegations that Qetu punched him in the head and restrained him while his driver kicked him. The complainant stated he was left unconscious but was fortunate that hotel security intervened.
He emphasized that his motivation for intervening was personal, as he recognized the woman being assaulted as the daughter of a former government colleague of Qetu. Following the incident, a group of bystanders reportedly confronted Qetu and his driver, leading to a further altercation.
The complainant and his family expressed their intention to pursue legal action, rejecting any notion of an out-of-court settlement despite attempts at reconciliation by the minister. They stressed that as a leader, Qetu should face the consequences of his alleged actions.
After appearing in court for remand, Qetu was granted bail. The complainant also revealed plans to lodge a complaint with the Ombudsman’s Office, seeking an investigation into the minister for possible violations of the Leadership Code Act.
This incident reflects broader issues of accountability within government and public leadership, echoing calls from the community for responsibility among public officials. The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding ethical conduct within government roles, instilling public faith in leadership and service.
The arrest of a high-profile official like Minister Qetu may also catalyze discussions around leadership ethics and the maintenance of public order, fostering a society where accountability is prioritized.
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