Fiji resident Zhao Fugang has categorically denied corruption allegations levelled against him by the United States Department of State, saying he was never contacted or given an opportunity to respond before the designation was announced.
In a statement issued today, Mr Zhao said he was aware of the US Department of State statement released on October 7.
“I categorically deny the allegations. They are unsubstantiated,” he said.
“Before the statement was published, no one from the United States Embassy or the Department of State contacted me.
“I was not told of any allegation and was given no opportunity to respond.”
Mr Zhao said he had also not been questioned by any Fijian authority in relation to the allegations and no charge had been laid against him.
He said he had written to the US Embassy in Suva seeking full particulars of the allegations.
“I respect the laws of Fiji and will cooperate fully with any lawful inquiry by the Fijian authorities,” he said.
“I ask the media and the public to respect the presumption of innocence and my family’s privacy.”
Mr Zhao said he would make no further comment at this stage.
The US Department of State yesterday publicly designated Mr Zhao, director of the Overseas Chinese Service Center in Fiji, alleging he was involved in “significant corruption” on behalf of China-based actors.
The Department alleged he had abused his public position by paying bribes to Fijian citizens to advance China-based government, business and criminal interests.
The designation makes Mr Zhao and his immediate family members generally ineligible to enter the United States.
The US said the action was taken under Section 7031(c), which provides for designations where the Secretary of State has credible information concerning involvement in significant corruption or gross violations of human rights.
