Opposition threatens to file complaint over alleged passport sale

The opposition group has threatened to file a police report if the government does not respond within seven days to allegations regarding the sale of diplomatic passports ahead of early elections. This demand underscores the seriousness with which the opposition views the alleged misconduct and its potential impact on the democratic process.

Opposition Leader, Ishmael Kalsakau, stated in a statement yesterday that they received information that at least two diplomatic passports were issued, one on December 16, 2024, and another on January 2, 2025. He stated that the opposition also received further information alleging that 25 million Vatu was paid on December 14, 2024, corresponding to the passport issued on December 6, 2024, and a second payment of 25 million Vatu was made two weeks before the early elections in response to the second passport issued on January 2. These allegations raise significant concerns about potential corruption and abuse of power within the government.

The Opposition Leader stated, "The Office of the Opposition has received confirmation from reliable sources within the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Immigration Office that their departments were not involved in receiving the alleged exchanged funds, but confirmed the dates of issuance of the diplomatic passports." He emphasized that if these allegations are true, the government must act swiftly to uphold its integrity and prosecute those involved, as a performance-based government should. Such decisive action would demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability.

Kalsakau stated that according to Section 3 of the Leadership Code Act, leaders must be aware of the laws associated with their role and act to avoid personal gain. The Penal Code stipulates that public officials must not accept bribes to perform their official duties, or they may face a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. The opposition calls on the government to take a clear stance to protect the assets and integrity of the people, prevent fraud, and assure the nation of its zero-tolerance approach to corruption. This firm stance is crucial for maintaining public trust and confidence in the government.

Regarding the 25 million Vatu payment allegations against former Minister Matai Seremiah, he himself has denied the allegations, stating that he believes they are politically motivated. The current Minister of Internal Affairs, Andrew Napuat, defended him, saying that the allegations are based on speculation and are unfounded. As part of the action taken in response to these allegations, Napuat signed an order to cancel the diplomatic passport benefits of trade commissioners. He stated in a previous statement, "The government has received reports of misconduct by some trade commissioners and has taken steps to address the issue." These actions indicate the government is taking the allegations seriously and is working to address any potential wrongdoing.