The High Court in Labasa has delivered a significant ruling in favor of the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) regarding a civil case against Savusavu businessman Hermant Kumar. The court has ordered Kumar to vacate the property he has occupied under his business, King Fashion, within a strict 14-day timeframe.
Acting Master Liyanage Kashyapa Wickramasekara announced the judgment on October 2, 2025, concluding that Kumar had not only failed to pay rent on the property but had also unlawfully continued to occupy it after his tenancy agreement had expired. According to court documents, TLTB issued an eviction notice to Kumar on February 17, 2025, which was delivered both through registered post and handed directly at his business location. Despite this formal notice, Kumar did not vacate the premises, compelling TLTB to pursue legal action.
In his ruling, the Acting Master affirmed that Kumar offered insufficient evidence to support his claims regarding rental disputes and renovation costs. He remarked, “The dispute concerning the rent lacks clear evidential support,” and emphasized that Kumar had no legal right to remain in occupancy of the property.
The court’s order also stipulates that Kumar is to settle all overdue rent payments within 30 days and to compensate TLTB with $3,000 in legal fees. This ruling not only reinforces the legitimacy of property rights but also underscores the necessity for tenants to adhere to their contractual obligations.
Recent rulings in neighboring jurisdictions have similarly focused on property rights and tenant responsibilities. For instance, a decision from the High Court in Suva enforced eviction orders against occupants of an eight-acre land parcel, affirming the legal rights of the Himalaya Parvat Company. In another instance, the Lautoka High Court mandated a group of individuals to vacate a Public Rental Board flat for breaching tenancy agreements by operating a canteen without permission.
These judicial actions reflect an ongoing commitment to uphold legal rights related to property ownership while addressing breaches that can arise in tenancy situations. There is a growing hope that increased awareness and communication around legal frameworks can foster more harmonious relationships between landlords and tenants, ultimately leading to a fairer and more just environment for all parties involved.
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