Minister Vasu confirms Facebook post removal

Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu has confirmed that permanent secretary Jone Navakamocea has taken down a controversial social media post, which he says dates back to 2006.

Mr Vasu’s response comes as Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu calls for Mr Navakamocea’s immediate suspension, citing racially charged language in the post.

“As Leader of the Opposition, I call for the immediate suspension of Mr Navakamocea pending the outcome of a full investigation,” Mr Seruiratu said.

“This is not about politics; it is about principle.”

He described the remarks made 19 years ago as incompatible with the values and responsibilities of a senior civil servant, saying they had undermined public trust and disrespected the lived experiences of Indo-Fijians.

“Words shape nations — they outlive us, and they return with consequence,” Mr Seruiratu said.

“Such rhetoric fractures the spirit of national unity we have worked hard to build.”

He also criticised the silence from senior Government leaders, pointing out that two Deputy Prime Ministers had yet to comment, while Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka had not addressed the matter publicly.

Mr Seruiratu further questioned the role of the Online Safety Commission in responding to such digital content.

“Ethno nationalism thrives where silence reigns,” he said.

“The commission must be more visible and proactive in addressing such content, as silence in the face of digital hate empowers its spread.”

He said building an inclusive Fiji must be a shared mandate rooted in respect for the Constitution and national values.

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