THE Youth and Sports Ministry’s (MOYS) Lesu ki Vale operation coordinator Kaminieli Matai Sadrata has strongly refuted claims of ‘staged aid’ and ‘exploitation’ levelled against its operation in a recent article published in The Fiji Sun.
The article titled ‘End poverty tourism’ was published on April 25 where Charity organisation Aruka Fiji Founder Inoke Drauna criticized the government’s ministers alleging the exploitation of vulnerable communities for political gain.
Mr Drauna called the initiative a political theatre.
Mr Sadrata said the article presented a distorted and inaccurate portrayal of the Ministry’s outreach to street dwellers.
In a strongly worded statement, Mr Sadrata emphasized that the ministry was mandated to undertake crucial development work, and the “Lesu Ki Vale Operation” was a vital program designed to provide genuine support, rehabilitation, and opportunities for vulnerable youth.
“These are not “staged aid” events for political gain, as the article alleges,” he said.
“These are critical interventions aimed at addressing complex social issues and empowering young people to rebuild their lives.”
Mr Sadrata said article’s claim of exploitation was unfounded.
“It is standard practice for the MOYS, and any responsible organization, to obtain informed consent before any photographs or personal information are used.
“The individuals involved in our programs are treated with the utmost respect and dignity. We prioritize their well-being and long-term development, not short-term publicity.
“The suggestion that we are callously using vulnerable people for political gain is a gross mischaracterization of our work.”
Mr Sadrata said it was disheartening that the decision had been made to publish the article which he said was misleading and based on unsubstantiated claims without verification.
“The MOYS remains committed to its mandate of serving the youth of Fiji, including the most marginalized.
“We will continue to implement our development programs with integrity, transparency, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact.
We welcome scrutiny of our programs, but it must be informed and fair. The article’s assertion that the Ministry’s actions are ‘political theatre is simply wrong.
“The Ministry is undertaking its mandated duty of youth development.”
Mr Sadrata also highlighted the lack of interest in showcasing the positive outcomes of the operation and the extensive work involved.
