Equal rent distribution still in place: TLTB

The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has clarified that the equal rent distribution system for landowning units remains in operation, following claims raised by lawyer Sainiana Waqainabete over lease payments to her relatives in Nadi.

TLTB chief executive officer Solomone Nata said the concerns stemmed from misunderstandings about how lease monies are currently distributed.

Ms Waqainabete earlier posted on social media that some of her relatives had raised concerns after receiving $50 each just before Christmas, compared with previous monthly payments of between $400 and $700 under what they understood to be the equal distribution system, commonly referred to as “one cent one person”.

She said her relatives were initially told their lease monies were locked, only to later learn that the traditional distribution system — where heads of landowning units receive a larger share — had been reinstated.

Ms Waqainabete said the change had affected families who relied on lease income for housing, vehicle purchases and their children’s education. She called for greater transparency, saying landowners needed clear and accurate information when distribution arrangements changed.

In response, Mr Nata said equal rent distribution was still being practised.

He said TLTB deducts 18 per cent poundage from lease income, with allocations of three per cent to the Turaga Taukei, five per cent to the Turaga ni Yavusa and seven per cent to the Turaga ni Mataqali.

“The remaining balance is either distributed equally, by assignment, or through a combination of both,” Mr Nata said.

He said some mataqali assign between 30 and 60 per cent of lease income for development purposes and traditional obligations, with the remainder shared equally among members.

Mr Nata added that lease payments vary depending on income received and are not always consistent.

“Equal rent distribution is still in operation,” he said.