The iTaukei Land Trust Board has refuted claims of misuse and mismanagement of landowning unit funds on social media.
Responding to the claims made on social media by Fiji-born US citizen Vilisi Nadaku, TLTB Board Governance, Audit and Risk Committee chairman Ratu Aca Rayawa said the allegations were false, reckless, unsupported by credible evidence and designed to mislead landowners.
Mr Rayawa highlighted several key claims made by Mr Nadaku that include the distribution of leases to the Grace Road group of companies for developments in Navua, Nadi and Yadua in Sigatoka.
“As a foreign investor, the Grace Road group of companies is required to operate in Fiji in strict compliance with Fiji’s laws,” Mr Rawaya said.
“In the same way, leases to the various Grace Road companies, including Grace Road Property Development Pte Limited and Grace Road Food Company Limited, must be processed and issued in accordance with TLTB’s policies and procedures.
“Mr Nadaku alleges that the TLTB CEO facilitated the issuance of a lease to Grace Road in Yadua.
“To clarify, the land on which the Grace Road True Mart is situated used to form part of a development lease in the name of the landowner trust. This portion was sold to Grace Road Trading Limited.
“The landowner trust then permitted Grace Road Trading Limited to continue developing the remainder of the land following the expiration of the original development lease.
“Mr Nadaku’s allegation that TLTB blocked the landowner trust project and instead pushed through the Grace Road lease is unfounded and libellous.”
He said the Wainadova land lease in Navua issue was before the High Court
“Again, the allegation is false, as Mr Nata was not involved in the processing of the leases.
“However, TLTB acknowledges the concerns raised regarding the breach of conditions on the agricultural lease in Navua.
“A formal breach notice was issued to the lessee and the penalty was duly paid.
“Subsequently, a new industrial lease was executed for the five-acre portion used for industrial purposes, ensuring compliance with the lease conditions.
“Furthermore, the matters relating to the Grace Road Wainadova lease are currently before the High Court.”
Mr Rayawa said TLTB would allow the judicial process to take its proper course.
“TLTB is, however, committed to ensuring the interests of the landowners are protected and that lease obligations are observed.”
