The Fijian government has recently announced the revival of the Freehold Land Buyback Scheme, now referred to as Buy Back Scheme 3.0. This move has elicited strong responses from different political factions, particularly from the Fiji Labour Party (FLP), which has criticized the initiative as a misallocation of priorities. Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, defended the scheme, clarifying that it is a reintroduction of a policy originally established in 1989.
The Revamped Scheme aims to facilitate land transactions based on a “willing buyer, willing seller” principle, with assurances that the government is not seizing land but rather restoring it to indigenous custodians in a respectful manner. Mr. Vosarogo highlighted that ten parcels of land have already been earmarked for restoration under this initiative, and traditional landowners can repay the government interest-free over 30 years while retaining the right to utilize the land.
In contrast, the FLP expressed skepticism. They argue that the government should instead focus on addressing the plight of the approximately 180,000 citizens living in informal settlements in Fiji, questioning the prioritization of land owners over landless individuals. They suggest that there is significant unutilized land that could serve as a solution for those in need.
This debate reflects broader issues surrounding land rights, historical justice, and social equity in Fiji. Minister Vosarogo emphasized that the scheme aims to meet the longstanding demands of traditional landowners while promoting productive land use.
In light of past efforts, previous iterations of the Freehold Buy Back Scheme have had notable successes, with land repurchased and returned to indigenous communities. The revival of the scheme is seen as a hopeful step toward rectifying historical injustices, empowering local communities, and fostering sustainable social and economic development.
The impact of this scheme could help revive communities by restoring their connection to ancestral lands. As these discussions unfold, there is a possibility for collaborative solutions that can address the needs of both landowners and those without land, paving the way for a more equitable approach to land restoration in Fiji.
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