Landowners Demand Transparency, TLTB Explains Stance

Some landowners from the mataqali Nawavatu of Kalabu Village are urging the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) to improve transparency and communication regarding issues related to their land.

The landowners have expressed their frustration on social media, criticising the TLTB's handling of their concerns.

One concerned landowner, Loata Raibevu, took to social media to voice her criticism, alleging that leases were facilitated without prior approval or informed consent from the mataqali members.

Ms Raibevu also questioned the legitimacy of investments made by the board through landowner's $750,000 balance withheld by the Board for investment purposes.

In a recent statement, the TLTB affirmed it recently held a consultation meeting with members of mataqali Nawavatu to iron out these issues.

TLTB said during the meeting, the mataqali elders raised their concerns about the manner in which internal matters were shared on social media. Mataqali elders reiterated the importance of respecting traditional protocols and maintaining the integrity of the vanua when addressing internal mataqali affairs.

TLTB also provided a comprehensive explanation of the transition process for the land's change of use, detailing the extensive consultations undertaken with elders and trustees.

The board said the premium calculation was based on the intended usage and market value, with the project being recognised as one of national interest.

"Furthermore, six acres were allocated for the landowners' empowerment initiative, representing a significant investment opportunity for the mataqali," the board said in a statement.

"Several key issues were discussed including the valuation of the pre-mium, the consultation process, and communication between trustees and mataqali members.

"These concerns were thoroughly addressed, leading to a productive discussion in which youth members acknowledged their breach of protocol and extended their apologies.

"TLTB also provided insights into its role in empowering landowners and facilitating business participation."

Clarification on investment

The TLTB said clarifications were made regarding the distribution of $3 million and the $750,000 balance withheld by the board for investment purposes.

"The executive management's decision to withhold these funds was based on investment regulations aimed at securing long-term benefits for the landowners.

"Additional business opportunities were also discussed, aligning with TLTB's vision for joint ventures and sustainable economic growth.

"Furthermore, TLTB presented a historical overview of lease payments made to the landowning unit (LOU), revealing that approximately $14 million had been distributed since 2015, with an average annual income per recipient of $1,720.27.

"While some members strongly advocated for the immediate distribution of the remaining funds, others expressed a willingness to pursue investment and business opportunities for the betterment of the mataqali.

Interest was also shown in leveraging the Taukei Development Fund (TDF) to support individual and collective business initiatives."

TLTB said the meeting fostered constructive dialogue between youth, elders, and trustees of mataqali Nawavatu, reinforcing the importance of unity, mutual respect, and strategic decision-making for the long-term prosperity of the mataqali.

"TLTB continues to urge the media to exercise responsible reporting when covering sensitive issues such as land deals.

"Accurate, well-informed reporting is essential in providing a balanced perspective that considers the legal, cultural, and economic implications for all stakeholders.

"Misinformation or incomplete coverage can create unnecessary tension and misunderstandings, potentially harming communities and investors alike.

"As the primary custodian of iTaukei land, TLTB remains committed to transparency, fairness, and the responsible management of land for the benefit of all iTaukei landowners."

Feedback: inoke.rabonu@fijisun.com.fj