Shocking allegations of sexual harassment have come to light against a Government Minister.

The complainant, a young professional, has given details of instances when she was subjected to unwanted attention from the minister.

While speaking to the Fiji Sun last night, the young woman gave details of the alleged incidents, which she has also outlined in her complaint to FijiFirst General Secretary Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.

In her complaint, she alleged that:

“On more than one occasion, the Minister has made sexual advances toward me. He has asked me to come over to his house for drinks and when I have declined, he has insisted that he pick me up and drop me in his official vehicle. He has, also in my presence, joked with his staff that because I attend meetings with him so often, people will think I am his girlfriend. I have always set the record straight with his staff.

“Recently, I invited him for a meeting with a client. He made the time and came to the meeting. When I thanked him for accepting the invitation, he told me that I owed him a kiss. I was absolutely disgusted and it made me wonder how he is managing the affairs of his Ministry.

“I have politely declined all advances and have tried not to show my anger or frustration as I fear being victimised since he is in a position of authority. It is appalling for a Minister to be conducting himself in this manner and I fear that he may be making these advances toward ordinary Fijian women who reach out to him for his assistance.”

She said that she feared that the behaviour of this one Minister was going to undo the good work done by the FijiFirst Government.

“I am worried that if he is bold enough to do this to me, what would he do with young Fijian women who may not be as educated, or who are vulnerable, or are desperate to get their work done? I had sent my complaint to the General Secretary of the Party and I look forward to hearing from them.”

She said: “I am sure the Party will take this complaint seriously and do the right thing because such behaviour is unbecoming of a Minister.”

Party General Secretary Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum could not be reached for a comment when this edition went to press last night.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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