Tensions Rise in Toko as Land Lease Controversy Unfolds

Residents of Toko, Tavua, are expressing significant concern over the recent announcement by the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) requesting tenants to surrender their 999-year leases. Suresh Prasad, who has lived in Toko since 1990 with his family, fears that this move could lead to the displacement of his household and others in the community. Mr. Prasad emphasizes that his family has lived on the land, which spans 14 acres, without purchasing it, as their parents owned the property.

Throughout the years, many families have made Toko their home, with residents relying on the land for their livelihoods, including jobs at the local Vatukoula Gold Mine and Fiji Water. Mr. Prasad noted the potential widespread impact of losing these leases, especially affecting local schoolchildren and families’ stability.

In light of these tensions, Mr. Prasad has suggested that TLTB maintain the existing leases while renegotiating rental fees, citing that both tenants and landlords could reach an agreement that satisfies their needs. This perspective is echoed by other community members who have also voiced their concerns about financial burdens and the implications of lease surrender.

Previous discussions surrounding the 999-year leases highlight the complexity of the situation, with tenants questioning the validity of the lease surrender and seeking legal counsel to protect their rights. The TLTB has indicated its commitment to ensuring that negotiations are conducted fairly, emphasizing the importance of engaging with community members to find sustainable solutions.

In a broader context, government officials, including Acting Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad, have reiterated the need for collaborative dialogue between tenants and landowners to navigate these challenges effectively. The ongoing situation reflects both the historical complexities of land tenure in Fiji and the need for clear communication and equitable solutions.

As Toko’s community grapples with uncertainty, there is hope that continued discussions may lead to arrangements that honor both tenant rights and landowner interests, fostering a more secure environment for all residents.