The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has commenced steps to enforce existing court orders against a number of individuals and estates who have failed to comply with judgments requiring vacant possession of iTaukei land and settlement of outstanding rental obligations.
The action follows approval for TLTB’s Legal Team to proceed with the necessary writs of possession through the Ba and Lautoka Magistrates’ Courts in cases where court orders have already been obtained but remain unfulfilled.
The affected matters involve occupants who have either failed to settle rental arrears as ordered by the courts, failed to regularise their occupation, or continued to occupy iTaukei land despite court directives requiring them to vacate the properties. The cases include both residential and agricultural lease-related matters in the Western Division.
CEO Mr Solomoni Nata, said the Board has a responsibility to ensure that court decisions are respected and that iTaukei land is managed in accordance with the law and the interests of landowners.
“TLTB remains committed to protecting the rights and interests of landowners while ensuring that all lessees and occupants comply with their legal obligations. Where court orders have been obtained and reasonable opportunities have been provided for compliance, TLTB is compelled to pursue the lawful enforcement mechanisms available under Fiji’s judicial system.”
“This process is not only about the recovery of outstanding rental arrears but also about upholding the integrity of lease administration and ensuring that iTaukei land is occupied and utilised in accordance with legal agreements and court directives.”
Under the enforcement process, TLTB will work closely with the Sheriff, Court Bailiffs and relevant authorities to execute the orders.
Physical enforcement will be carried out only through the authorised court process, as provided for under the Magistrates Court Act 1944. TLTB officers will assist in receiving possession of properties once lawful recovery has been completed.
The Board encourages all lessees and occupants with outstanding obligations to engage proactively with TLTB to discuss their circumstances and seek appropriate solutions before matters escalate to legal enforcement proceedings.
Mr Nata said TLTB remains committed to working constructively with tenants and occupants wherever possible, but stressed that continued non-compliance with court orders leaves the Board with no alternative but to proceed with enforcement action.
“Respect for the rule of law is essential to ensuring fairness for both landowners and occupiers. These enforcement measures are necessary to safeguard the interests of landowners and maintain confidence in the administration of iTaukei land.”
The enforcement exercise forms part of TLTB’s broader efforts to improve rental recovery, reduce illegal occupation and ensure that iTaukei land resources continue to generate benefits for current and future generations of landowners.