The Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission has raised significant concerns regarding recent media coverage and official statements related to the Grace Road Church Group. Commission chair Pravesh Sharma emphasized the importance of upholding Section 11(1) of Fiji’s Constitution, which guarantees individual freedom from degrading treatment. He reiterated that this constitutional right must be respected in all circumstances.
Sharma highlighted that while Section 17(1) provides for freedom of publication, it also entails a responsibility for the media to report accurately and justly, avoiding sensationalism or harmful narratives that could undermine the dignity of individuals or groups. He pointed out that recent allegations concerning a mother’s access to her children, involving a member of the Grace Road Church Group, should have been reported with greater sensitivity. Such issues, he noted, should be properly addressed through legal channels like the Family Court, where the mother can seek appropriate remedies regarding her children’s custody.
Furthermore, Sharma commented on public statements from the Ministry of Employment regarding potential employment violations by the Grace Road Church Group, underlining that the group should be given a fair opportunity to respond to these allegations before any public conclusions are drawn. He also noted that the commission frequently receives complaints about the exploitation of migrant workers by local employers but questioned whether similar public accountability measures are being applied consistently to these cases.
According to Sharma, it is vital for both media and government officials to treat the Grace Road Church Group with fairness and to avoid discrimination, as stipulated under Section 26 of the Constitution. He urged all stakeholders to engage with this situation judiciously, emphasizing the need for justice and equality.
In summary, the Commission is calling for a balanced approach to the issues surrounding the Grace Road Church Group, highlighting the need for fair treatment and adherence to legal processes. This situation presents an opportunity for all involved to foster a more equitable environment, encouraging media responsibility and prompting a dialogue around human rights issues in Fiji.
By stressing the importance of justice and impartiality, this situation encourages a collective commitment to uphold human rights and ensures that all parties are treated equitably as discussions continue.
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