Minister for Lands Filimoni Vosarogo has strongly refuted accusations that the iTaukei Land Buyback scheme is merely a government handout. During a recent session in Parliament, Vosarogo clarified that the initiative is a voluntary agreement between willing buyers and sellers, contrary to claims suggesting otherwise.
He emphasized that the scheme respects the legal rights of landowners, stating, “I’m aware, Honourable Speaker, that there are some who… are spreading assumptions and outright lies that it is a government-sponsored land grant. Far from it.” Vosarogo noted that ownership consent is essential for all transactions involving freehold land.
The primary intention of this initiative, he explained, is to assist iTaukei communities in reclaiming their ancestral land while providing government facilitation and financial support. This echoes previous reports regarding the Freehold Buyback Scheme, informally known as Buy Back Scheme 3.0, which aims to empower traditional landowners by allowing those willing to sell their land to do so in a manner that benefits their cultural and economic standing in society.
The government has allocated a significant budget of $10 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year to support the implementation of this scheme, showcasing a commitment to rectifying historical land injustices experienced by the iTaukei community. The reintroduction of the program has garnered positive reactions, as it provides an opportunity for landowners to reclaim what was lost during colonial times.
This renewed commitment reflects a broader goal of fostering sustainable development and cultural empowerment within the iTaukei population. The initiative not only aims to restore land rights but also to strengthen the socio-economic fabric of iTaukei communities, improving their livelihoods and cultural identities for generations to come.
Overall, the reaffirmation of the Freehold Buyback Scheme presents a hopeful pathway for the iTaukei people to reclaim their heritage and promote community-driven growth. This initiative serves as an essential step towards addressing historical wrongs while encouraging future prosperity.
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