Grace Road Group has announced that it will temporarily cease all new projects and business expansions in Fiji as it evaluates its strategic direction. This decision comes in response to recent allegations made against the group by a former member of its Grace Road Church, who described troubling experiences, including being separated from her children and subjected to harsh working conditions.
In a statement posted on their social media channels, Grace Road Group criticized reports from The Fiji Times, claiming the media has unfairly targeted them. They denied the allegations presented, calling them “baseless” and suggesting that the reports stemmed from a family dispute rather than factual concerns about the church’s practices. The group expressed frustration over their portrayal in the media, stating that it hinders their business operations and raises concerns about the business environment for foreign investors in Fiji.
Grace Road highlighted its significant contributions to the Fijian economy, noting that it has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in the country, pays substantial taxes, and provides nearly 900 jobs. However, they indicated that under the current circumstances and the ongoing legal issues, including the detention of some key members, particularly their group president, it has become increasingly challenging to pursue new opportunities.
While this situation is undoubtedly complex and fraught with challenges, it underscores the importance of fair reporting and the potential consequences of media narratives on businesses and their ability to thrive. By taking the time to reassess their operations, Grace Road Group may emerge from this period with renewed clarity and potentially stronger strategies for future engagement in Fiji.
The halt in expansion could also provide an opportunity for Grace Road to address the concerns raised and rebuild trust within the community, creating a more supportive environment for both the church’s members and the local population.
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