Pay the arrears or face legal actions.
These were the words of the iTaukei Land Trust Board CEO Solomoni Nata after a home in Delailasa had its power and water supply disconnected for not paying rent.
Mr Nata said the tenants had only made one payment this year, despite an agreement they made in court to settle their payment in 2024.
“After that, they ignored all warnings,” he said.
“Now, their home sits in darkness, without water and with the threat of eviction hanging over them.”
In response to queries from this newspaper, Mr Nata said the court had approved the disconnection.
“TLTB cannot cut electricity and water unless the court gives permission.
“When people stop paying, we must act.”
Mr Nata said many tenants only start paying up when they lose basic services.
“That’s when they come forward and pay. We have tried many times to help the tenants.
“They sent notices, ran awareness programs and even offered payment plans but still, no response.”
Mr Nata said collecting lease payment was their bound duty to landowners.
“We are here to protect their rights.
“If tenants keep refusing to pay, we will ask them to leave the land.”
Mr Nata also warned other tenants to take TLTB notices seriously.
“Come talk to us early. Don’t wait for court orders or disconnections.”
Attempts to speak with the Delailasa tenant have been unsuccessful.
