Opposition Condemns Defamatory Social Media Attacks on Women MPs

The Office of the Leader of the Opposition has strongly condemned a defamatory and derogatory social media post targeting two women Members of Parliament, describing the content as offensive, irresponsible and inconsistent with democratic standards of public discourse.

Opposition Leader Hon. Inia Seruiratu said the post contained unacceptable language and unsubstantiated allegations, including claims of criminal conduct, which he said were harmful and potentially unlawful

Mr Seruiratu made it clear that neither he nor the Parliamentary Opposition Chambers support or condone defamatory commentary, gender-based abuse or personal attacks against any Member of Parliament, regardless of political affiliation

The statement highlighted that women in public office face disproportionate levels of scrutiny and abuse online, and warned that such attacks undermine both individual dignity and the integrity of public institutions, while discouraging women’s participation in leadership and governance

The Opposition has called on the individual responsible for the post to immediately remove the content, issue a public apology and refrain from making further defamatory statements

While reaffirming support for freedom of expression, Mr Seruiratu stressed that such freedom carries responsibility and must not descend into personal abuse, defamation or the spread of harmful misinformation