The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has rejected allegations surrounding the issuance of leases linked to the Grace Road group of companies — emphasising that CEO Solomone Nata was not involved in the processing of the leases.
Ratu Aca Rayawa, Chairman of the TLTB Board Governance, Audit, and Risk Committee, said all Grace Road leases were handled through standard procedures and strict legal requirements.
“As a foreign investor, the Grace Road group of companies is required to operate in Fiji in strict compliance with Fiji’s laws,” he said.
“In the same way, leases to the Grace Road companies must be processed and issued in accordance with TLTB’s policies and procedures.”
He stressed that TLTB, as statutory trustee, must consult iTaukei landowners before any lease is approved, as required under the iTaukei Land Trust Act 1940.
“These statutory checks and balances safeguard the interests of iTaukei landowners,” Ratu Aca said.
He added that leases are granted only after applicants meet eligibility criteria including valid documentation, proof of income, development plans and the capacity to meet financial obligations.
Responding to claims that Mr Nata facilitated a lease for Grace Road in Yadua, Ratu Aca dismissed the accusations.
“The allegation that the CEO facilitated the issuance of the lease is unfounded and libellous,” he said.
He explained that the site where Grace Road True Mart operates was originally part of a development lease owned by the landowner trust. That portion was later sold to Grace Road Trading Limited, which continued development after the original lease expired.
Ratu Aca also clarified concerns over the Grace Road lease in Wainadova.
TLTB confirmed that a breach of agricultural lease conditions in Navua had occurred. A formal breach notice was issued, the penalty paid, and a new industrial lease was granted for the five-acre portion being used for industrial purposes — bringing the site into compliance.
He added that matters relating to the Wainadova lease are now before the High Court.
“It would be inappropriate for TLTB to comment further. We will allow the judicial process to take its proper course,” he said, assuring that the Board remains committed to protecting landowners’ interests and enforcing lease obligations.
