13-Year Wait for Land Bank Scheme Leaves Nadi Family in the Dark

A family from Nadi has expressed their dissatisfaction with the government’s Land Bank scheme, claiming they have been misled regarding the benefits promised. Dr. Sailasa Laudola Misimisi, who is the son-in-law of the Legalega property’s owner, states that the land has been under the Land Bank scheme for 13 years without any meaningful development or financial returns.

According to Dr. Misimisi, the land was relinquished to the government in 2013 with assurances that it would be developed and sold, generating profits for the Tokatoka Vunamasei of the Mataqali Vunamaoli in Saunaka Village. The original agreement stipulated that after development and sale of the lots, the government would deduct associated costs and return the remaining funds to the landowners. However, he claims that aside from a few minor developments, such as a tarsealed road and lamp posts without functioning lights, there has been little progress.

He highlights the lack of a formal written agreement with the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources regarding development timelines, obligations, or financial arrangements. Despite requests for financial statements made last year, Dr. Misimisi indicates that the family has not received any updates or responses from the Land Use Unit or senior officials, leaving them in the dark about the status of their land.

The now-neglected land has reportedly become overgrown and a hotspot for illicit activities, which raises concerns for the local community. Dr. Misimisi described the area as having transformed into a site for drinking and drug use, stressing that the land is not under their control but rather, under government custody, urging officials to take accountability.

FBC News has reached out to the Ministry of Lands and the Land Bank Department for comments but is yet to receive a response. This situation highlights not only the concerns of local landowners but also underscores broader issues of accountability and responsiveness within government projects. As the family awaits resolution, the hope remains that further dialogue will prompt action and foster positive outcomes for the community.