MP Usamate’s driving video raises fresh road-safety questions
Transport Minister says distraction remains whether a driver holds a phone or uses a mounted camera
Wednesday 19 August 2026 | 12:00
Updated 19 August 2026 | 17:59 FJT
Opposition MP Jone Usamate outside Parliament on August 17, 2026.
Photo: Ronald Kumar
Opposition MP Jone Usamate is facing fresh scrutiny after posting a video on Facebook showing him talking to camera while driving to Parliament, raising questions about compliance with the Land Transport Act 1998.
When first approached on Monday, Mr Usamate said his car was parked. However, the footage shows him filming from the driver’s seat during a rainy morning commute, addressing the camera, lifting his Methodist Men’s Fellowship tie into view and talking throughout the clip while travelling through heavy traffic and rain.
When approached again yesterday, Mr Usamate said he had not seen the concerns raised but would wait to hear from the relevant authorities if they made contact.
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Under Regulation 51 of the Land Transport Act, a driver may not use a two-way communication device unless the vehicle is first brought to a standstill.
Regulation 45 requires both hands to be firmly on the wheel, except when changing gear or operating other controls.
Under the Act, failing to control steering carries a $50 fine, while using a mobile device carries a $100 fine.
‘The distraction is still there’
Asked whether the Act should be reviewed to account for dashboard-mounted cameras and hands-free technology, Assistant Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport Naisa Tuinaceva said the distraction remained regardless of the device used.
"Mobile, whether you use it through the tripod, or you are holding it, or even placing it on the seat, the distraction is still there," Mr Tuinaceva said.
Mr Tuinaceva said the law existed for the safety of drivers and other road users.
On filming while driving, he said: "You'll be talking and half of your brain will be going towards that camera because you want to impress the camera. That's dangerous."
The footage has emerged as Mr Usamate faces renewed public scrutiny following a separate dispute over a parking fine issued to him within the Parliamentary precinct.
Speaker Filimone Jitoko ruled this week that the Parliamentary precinct falls under his jurisdiction.
