The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has issued a warning to seven tenants regarding their outstanding utility payments, stating that water supply disconnection will occur if arrears are not settled. This week, TLTB secured court orders mandating these tenants to pay their overdue rent immediately to avoid disruptions in service.
This development marks an extension of TLTB’s ongoing enforcement measures which have resulted in a total of 16 court orders since January 2025. These orders collectively pertain to approximately $63,000 in rental arrears, highlighting the Board’s commitment to ensuring that landowners receive fair compensation for the use of their land.
TLTB’s CEO, Solomone Nata, emphasized the organization’s legal responsibility to uphold the lease terms, stating, “Collecting rental income is not just a financial obligation; it is our legal duty to the landowners.” He has expressed that despite taking a range of steps—including issuing multiple notices, conducting awareness campaigns, and offering flexible payment plans—legal intervention became inevitable due to ongoing non-compliance from some tenants.
Furthermore, Nata revealed that the Human Rights & Anti-Discrimination Commission has acknowledged the due process followed by TLTB in this matter, thereby reinforcing the organization’s transparency and fairness in its enforcement actions.
In light of these actions, tenants are encouraged to engage in dialogue with TLTB to address their financial obligations. Nata noted that while strict enforcement measures are sometimes necessary, there is also hope for constructive interaction that can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes. The outreach initiatives by TLTB aim not only to mitigate financial losses for landowners but also to foster community resilience and stability.
This emphasis on cooperation and communication signals a positive approach, aiming for a shared pathway to success for both tenants and landowners in the future.
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