The Grace Road Group has firmly denied what it calls unfounded media reports and prejudiced accusations that have negatively impacted its reputation. In light of these challenges, the company has decided to pause its plans for business expansion.
This decision comes as the organization is already facing legal issues, including the detention of some of its key members. The Grace Road Group indicated that ongoing scrutiny from the media and legal difficulties influenced this pause in future business activities.
The Group has significantly invested in Fiji’s economy, providing nearly 900 jobs and contributing millions of dollars in taxes annually. They have expressed concern over what they label as a “toxic” media environment. Specific reports, including one from a local newspaper, have dragged the organization’s name into personal family disputes, further damaging its public image. A recent claim from a woman associated with the church suggested she escaped last week due to alleged mistreatment, including physical beatings.
Responding to this, Grace Road stated that the situation mentioned is a family matter within the Grace Road community and criticized the media for exploiting personal issues for sensational coverage. They expressed disappointment that the media did not respect the family’s privacy during their dispute.
Additionally, Grace Road has refuted accusations concerning the mistreatment of elderly members on its Navua farm, describing the reports as highly exaggerated and lacking substantial evidence. They highlighted that there has been no further police investigation into these claims.
Despite the ongoing setbacks and legal struggles, including the detention of its president, Grace Road remains dedicated to its operations in Fiji. However, the Group acknowledged that the current challenges, including misinformation and negative press, complicate their ability to move forward with business expansion. They pointed out that these factors can deter foreign investors as well.
Overall, while facing adversity, the Grace Road Group has shown resilience. Their commitment to staying in Fiji highlights their dedication to the local economy and the jobs they create. Moving forward, it will be crucial for them to navigate these challenges with transparency and community engagement to restore their reputation and continue contributing positively to Fiji’s development.
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