The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has escalated its efforts to address unpaid lease rent by taking 164 cases to court in August, totaling $483,789.38 in arrears. These cases span across four regions, with Suva in the Central Eastern Region representing the largest share, comprising 19 cases valued at $336,168.37. Other regions like Lautoka (North-Western Region) have 102 cases totaling $68,261.03, with additional cases from Labasa and Nadi now also in legal proceedings.
The TLTB continues to stress the importance of timely rent payments, emphasizing their legal obligation to collect rent to ensure landowners receive their rightful earnings. They have warned that failure to comply will result in legal actions, potentially leading to utilities disconnection or eviction.
Throughout various initiatives, TLTB has maintained a consistent approach, offering structured payment plans to tenants and encouraging communication to avoid legal consequences. This mirrors past efforts where the Board managed significant arrears across thousands of tenants, leading to legal proceedings to maintain accountability and support landowners’ livelihoods.
CEO Solomone Nata and TLTB officials have continuously advocated for open communication with tenants, fostering environments where cooperative solutions can be found. This approach aims to balance enforcement with understanding, providing tenants an opportunity to reconcile their debts and maintain their leases while still supporting the financial stability of local landowners.
TLTB’s strategy highlights an ongoing commitment to ensuring fairness for landowners while aiding tenants in overcoming financial difficulties. By encouraging dialogue and offering avenues for resolution, both tenants and landowners can work together towards maintaining a prosperous community. Through continued cooperation, TLTB hopes to achieve positive outcomes that benefit the social and economic health of the region.