“IT’S not us!” That’s the response of both sides of Parliament, the Government and the Opposition, rejecting allegations linking politicians to the 4.15 tonnes of methamphetamine case that is presently before the court.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka addressed the media, saying none of the current government members have been investigated in connection with the case.
“I do not know about the previous regime members,” Mr Rabuka said.
“We are subject to the same rules that apply to the public.
“There is no compulsory testing in government; administering such tests without legal backing is not possible.”
He further acknowledged ongoing police investigations, noting that authorities have leads pointing towards MPs and expressing hope that those leads will be pursued thoroughly.
Opposition Whip Jone Usamate defended members of the former government, particularly those who participated in the opening of a car washing business belonging to Justin Ho, who was identified by the court as the kingpin of the whole operation.
He argued that supporting small businesses should not be conflated with endorsing illicit activities.
“If I am invited to open your business and you are a government that supports local businesses, should I go or should I not?” Mr Usamate said.
“It does not mean that if that guy is a drug seller and I’m opening his business, that I’m in cahoots with him.”
He cautioned against making speculative connections without evidence, urging accusers to name individuals publicly and back their claims with proof.
“If somebody has done something wrong, something should happen. Bring the evidence to the table and take the person to task. As simple as that.”
Yesterday, the State sought a 50-year sentence for Ho, David Heritage, and Jale Aukerea. The case has been adjourned to next Wednesday for mitigation.