Government clarifies stance on comments for documentary by Al jazeera reporter

A reporter with Al Jazeera recently noted that no one from the Fijian Government was available to comment on a recent documentary that outlines ongoing allegations about businesses affiliated with Grace Road Church.

Al Jazeera should know that Fiji operates within the realm of the law, and this remains the case. Certain matters in relation to Grace Road Church are currently being handled by the Ministry of Employment and Police, and we must allow due process to take its course without the interference of Government comment. Government also cannot comment on the documentary’s newly-revealed video showing remarks of the church’s former leader, as it is presently unclear if it has been altered or doctored in some way. Meanwhile, we can point to adherence to electoral law to clarify that only Fijian citizens –– and no other national –– can be elected to Parliament, so any notion otherwise is unfounded and irresponsible fearmongering at its worst. Again in adherence to the law, it is vital that Government separate religion from business.

We cannot uproot private businesses owned by members of any faith based organisation on their words, actions or teachings; to do so would be a gross violation of the Fijian Constitution. Finally, we have adhered to international law as we cooperated with our South Korean counterparts in past investigations, and will continue to do so moving forward to investigate any allegations of breaches of the law. Any allegations of breaches of Fijian laws and workplace rules and regulations will be met with appropriate action to protect the well-being of the Fijian people and those residing in Fiji.