SCC Owed $37.958 Million in Past Due Rates and Rent, Name and Shame Plan to Recoup Outstanding Delinquent Debts

The Suva City Council owes $37.958 million in total rent arrears through September 30 this year, and now plans to introduce a ‘Name and Shame’ initiative, publicly exposing defaulters who have failed to pay their dues.

This was highlighted today at the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Affairs, where Suva City Council acting CEO Tevita Boseiwaqa stressed the urgency of addressing the significant financial burden caused by unpaid rates.

Boseiwaqa says these payment delays are impacting the Council’s ability to maintain essential services such as waste collection, drainage maintenance and park improvements.

He goes on to say that Council has identified 123 vacant lots in various wards with significant payment arrears, totaling more than $2.27 million.

Freehold leases make up the majority of unpaid rates, representing a major financial concern for the Council.

In an interview with fijivillage News, Boseiwaqa said the Council will implement its approach cautiously.

He says they will give defaulters a fair chance to pay their dues and if there is no improvement, they will continue to publish their names, stressing that this step will be a last resort.

He says defaulters are encouraged to come forward and negotiate repayment plans or waivers if they are in difficulty.

He further says that the ‘Name and Shame’ initiative is expected to be rolled out by the end of the year, sending a strong message to taxpayers that non-payment of outstanding arrears will not go unnoticed.