PDP to leave lease distribution issue to landowners

The People’s Democratic Party has made it clear that it will not take a stand on whether it will continue to support the equal distribution of land lease rental income as yet.

In an interview with Fijivillage, PDP Leader, Felix Anthony said he is not bothered by recent comments made by the Fiji First Leader, Voreqe Bainimarama on the PDP’s stand on equal distribution of lease money. 

The Bainimarama led government has brought in the new system where members of the landowning units get equal share of the lease payments compared to the system in the past where the largest chunk was taken by the chiefs of the units.

Anthony said the PDP will leave the decision to the i-Taukei community if it forms the next government.

Meanwhile $1.6 million was paid to the Mataqali Matanikorovatu of Kalabu village in Naitasiri yesterday.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said this represents the outstanding royalty payments for the Laqere Government Quarry commonly known as the Nasinu Quarry which began in 1931.

72-year-old Paula Raiwiriwiri who is the leader of the clan said the money will be shared equally amongst the 74 members.