A former employee of the now-deregistered Peoples Community Network (PCN), Savu Tawake, has defended the handling of funds related to the Lagilagi Housing project, asserting that all transactions were recorded appropriately. Tawake’s dismissal from PCN in 2019 stemmed from alleged financial mismanagement by the organization’s previous leadership.
In a recent interview, Tawake criticized the government’s interference in the project’s execution, which he claims contributed to delays affecting families residing in the Jittu Estate’s adjacent squatter settlement. Jittu Estate houses over 3,000 residents and exemplifies the prevalent issues surrounding informal settlements in Suva, Fiji.
The project aimed to build 153 housing units in two phases, but a combination of funding delays from the government, particularly due to payment disputes involving Fortech Construction Pte Limited, has hindered progress. Allegations suggest that certain individuals received priority housing despite not residing in the squatter settlement. Tawake, who has faced police questioning regarding the project’s finances, insists that PCN maintained thorough documentation for all fund flows and transactions.
Under new management from the Public Rental Board (PRB), the project is set to see the completion of 36 new housing units, with an additional eight units anticipated to break ground next month. However, the PRB has yet to clarify whether families from the Jittu squatter settlement will be prioritized for these units.
Residents like Sireli Naqau remain hopeful about securing one of the new units but are required to prove financial eligibility to pay rent. While there are concerns regarding those who may not be able to afford rent, discussions continue regarding potential arrangements for tenants to eventually own the units after payment.
Qalowasa, a key figure in the establishment of PCN, expressed his disappointment at the slow progression of the project, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach among all parties involved. He maintained that, had the project been completed timely, it could have substantially alleviated the housing crisis for those in informal settlements.
In summary, the Lagilagi Housing project faces ongoing challenges amid financial mismanagement allegations and government involvement. However, the ongoing discussions and decision-making efforts show promise for potentially uplifting families in need within the Jittu squatter settlement. The situation invites optimism for improved housing conditions as stakeholders work towards addressing these pressing issues.
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