The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has firmly dismissed allegations of financial mismanagement related to landowning unit funds that have recently emerged on social media. The claims, initiated by Fiji-born U.S. citizen Vilisi Nadaku, have been characterized as inaccurate and misleading by Ratu Aca Rayawa, the chairman of the TLTB Board Governance, Audit and Risk Committee.
Ratu Rayawa addressed several accusations made by Nadaku, particularly concerning the distribution of leases to the Grace Road group of companies for development projects in regions like Navua, Nadi, and Sigatoka. He stressed that the Grace Road group must comply with strict requirements as a foreign investor, ensuring all activities align with local laws. He further clarified that the leases linked to Grace Road companies, including Grace Road Property Development and Grace Road Food Company, are processed following TLTB’s established policies and procedures.
One of Nadaku’s main allegations involved the TLTB CEO’s alleged involvement in facilitating a lease for Grace Road in Yadua. In response, Mr. Rayawa explained that the land, where the Grace Road True Mart operates, was part of a development lease previously held by a landowner trust and later sold to Grace Road Trading Limited. The landowner trust permitted Grace Road Trading to continue its development activities after the original lease expired.
Mr. Rayawa strongly denied Nadaku’s assertions that TLTB obstructed the landowner trust’s projects for the benefit of Grace Road, labeling such claims as baseless and defamatory. Regarding the Wainadova land lease in Navua, he mentioned that the issue is currently before the High Court and reassured that Mr. Nata was not involved in the lease processing.
While acknowledging concerns regarding breaches of conditions on agricultural leases in Navua, Mr. Rayawa noted that TLTB issued a formal breach notice to the lessee, which has since been resolved with penalty payments. He also highlighted the establishment of a new industrial lease for a section of land designated for industrial use, ensuring that lease conditions are met.
Concluding his remarks, Mr. Rayawa reiterated TLTB’s commitment to protecting the interests of landowners and emphasized the importance of allowing the judicial process to proceed concerning ongoing legal matters. This dedication reflects TLTB’s responsible management and commitment to transparency amidst current scrutiny, reinforcing the board’s role as a guardian of community resources and landowner rights.