LOATA Raibevu, representing the Mataqali Nawavatu from Kalabu Village in Naitasiri, announced that during a meeting held on November 12, 2024, the majority of mataqali members rejected a proposal put forth by the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB). The discussions revolved around a lease premium payment amounting to $2.9 million paid by the government for land leased for the construction of a 100-bed Super Special Cardiology Hospital, a collaborative effort between the governments of Fiji and India.

Raibevu articulated the group’s insistence on fully disbursing the funds to all members, citing historical grievances against past management by trustees and elders. Many members expressed their surprise at being informed of the hospital project, which they had only learned about during this meeting. The details regarding the land lease had been negotiated without their knowledge, leaving them frustrated.

During the meeting, TLTB officials proposed retaining $750,000 for future investments and development, which the members unanimously declined. Raibevu emphasized the need for clarity regarding the distribution of the lease premium and called for transparency in how the remaining funds are managed since they felt the decisions were made without proper consent from the mataqali members.

In response to these concerns, TLTB stated that consultations had occurred with the mataqali’s trustees and elders. They clarified that while $1,319,715.54 had already been distributed through the Equal Rent Distribution system, the withheld amount was meant for investment on behalf of the mataqali landowners, reflecting broader efforts to foster a savings and investment culture within communities.

This situation echoes broader concerns raised previously about land management and the financial dealings surrounding iTaukei lands. It highlights the ongoing challenges landowners face in ensuring they reap fair benefits from developments on their ancestral land. It is essential for TLTB and mataqali representatives to prioritize transparency and communication to cultivate a more collaborative approach that empowers community members and supports equitable distribution of resources derived from their land.

The discussions surrounding this issue underscore the importance of addressing community needs and ensuring that landowners are not left in the dark regarding developments that directly affect their livelihoods. Positive engagement could foster a more sustainable path forward, benefiting both the landowners and the broader community.

In summary, the recent events involving Mataqali Nawavatu call for greater transparency in dealings related to land leases and emphasize the need for an inclusive approach to decision-making. This could potentially lead to improved trust and collaboration between the landowners and the TLTB, setting a positive precedent for future engagements.