I’m not in cahoots with any drug dealers - Usamate

Opposition Member of Parliament Jone Usamate has clarified that opening a business does not equate to endorsing the individual behind it, especially if they are later found to be involved in illegal activities.

This has been shared by Opposition Member of Parliament and former FijiFirst Minister, Jone Usamate.

Usamate explained that he had opened many businesses during his time in office as part of his official duties and firmly denied any involvement or links to the massive 4.5 tonnes of methamphetamine seized in Nadi.

He was specifically responding to criticisms over the opening of a car wash business owned by Justin Ho, who has been identified by the court as the kingpin in the drug trafficking operation.

Usamate emphasized that supporting local businesses should not be interpreted as supporting criminal activity.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka confirmed that no current government members have been investigated in connection to the drug case.

He says there is no mandatory drug testing policy within the government, and any such testing would require legal backing.