Allegations against MP prompt scrutiny of leaders’ conduct

Jun 5, 2026 | News | 0

Allegations posted on Facebook involving Member of Parliament (MP) Tomker Netvunei have prompted scrutiny of leadership conduct and expectations under the Leadership Code, which requires public officials to uphold high ethical standards.

While no formal complaint has been lodged, the claims have circulated widely online, triggering public debate over standards of behaviour among national leaders.

The allegations circulating on social media involving MP Netvunei and an associate stem from posts made by Delly Tari. In her posts, Ms Tari alleged that MP Netvunei and a man identified as a National Bank of Vanuatu (NBV) employee engaged her colleagues in conversations about her personal life while visiting her workplace.

According to the posts, the pair allegedly asked whether workplace security cameras were active and made repeated inquiries into her private relationships and personal matters, which she described as inappropriate and intrusive, and as sexual harassment.

Ms Tari said the alleged behaviour was unacceptable, particularly given the MP’s position, and questioned the relevance of such discussions in a workplace setting involving staff who were not part of any personal matter.

The posts have circulated widely online and generated public debate, with users expressing differing views on the allegations and broader concerns about boundaries and professionalism expected from public officials.

Legal and ethical framework on alleged workplace conduct in Vanuatu

Under the Vanuatu Leadership Code Act [CAP 240], leaders are required to uphold high ethical standards. Conduct that brings a leader’s office into disrepute may amount to a breach of the Code. Complaints may be submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman, which has authority to investigate and refer matters to the Public Prosecutor where appropriate. If a breach is proven in the Supreme Court, penalties may include fines, dismissal from office, or disqualification from holding public office for up to 10 years.

Depending on the nature of the conduct, provisions of the Vanuatu Penal Code [CAP 135] may also apply, including offences related to indecent behaviour, intimidation, or insulting language.

Vanuatu is also a signatory to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), which requires protection of women and girls from gender-based violence and harassment in both public and private settings, including workplaces.

Support services such as the Vanuatu Women’s Centre and Sista Vanuatu provide confidential assistance and advocacy for individuals experiencing harassment or related concerns.

MP response

Netvunei publicly apologised on Facebook yesterday following circulation of the allegations, while maintaining that the interaction was not intended to be inappropriate and was part of an informal conversation later shared on social media. He said his visit to the workplace was connected to hiring a vehicle and denied asking inappropriate questions, adding that any references made were based on information already publicly available online. He also noted that formal avenues such as police or the Ombudsman remain available should any complaint be pursued.

Colleague account

A colleague of Ms Tari, who was present during the interaction while Ms Tari was absent, also commented publicly. She said she felt uncomfortable during the exchange and attempted to redirect the conversation, but described certain remarks as inappropriate, including comments about her appearance and questions about whether workplace surveillance cameras were operating.

Public reaction and ongoing debate

The incident has triggered widespread online discussion, with users debating the appropriateness of the alleged conduct and expectations for elected officials in informal or workplace interactions.

Some have called for accountability and clearer standards of behaviour, while others have urged caution pending any formal process.

At this stage, no formal complaint has been lodged by Ms Tari with police, the Office of the Ombudsman, or any other investigative authority regarding the allegations circulating on social media.

The matter continues to circulate online, reflecting ongoing public debate on professional conduct, privacy, and accountability in public office in Vanuatu.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST

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