In a move aimed at addressing growing concerns over irregularities in land transactions, the Eastern Equatoria State government has implemented a ban on the issuance of plot tokens in Torit.
The decision, made last Monday, follows a detailed presentation by the Minister of Housing, Land, and Public Utilities to the Honourable Council of Ministers during its regular session (number 4/2024) on February 1, 2024. The memo primarily focused on the ratification map of Torit Business Center, Government institutions, and the demarcation of Quarter Council.
Authorities have raised concerns about certain individuals within the State Ministry of Land, Housing, and Public Utilities who are allegedly selling plots to more than three individuals using the same tokens. After extensive deliberations, the Council of Ministers approved the roadmap presented, which will be implemented by the Torit Municipal Council and relevant government institutions.
Elia John Ahaji, the Minister of Information and Communication for Eastern Equatoria State, emphasized in a press statement Friday that the government immediately prohibits the issuance of tokens for undeveloped plots/land. He stated that the Council of Ministers warns that purchasing land in undemarcated areas will be considered illegal and unacceptable.
“The Council has resolved that individuals who have unlawfully purchased land/plots in the yet-to-be-demarcated area must promptly report to the Minister’s office at the Ministry of Housing, Land, and Public Utilities, providing the necessary receipts. Failure to comply with these directives will result in the nullification of any future claims for the plot in question, for which payment has been made. Furthermore, the Council has instructed the Minister of Housing, Land, and Public Utilities to immediately halt the issuance of tokens for the plots until further notice,” Ahaji explained.
Mustafa Albino Zachariah, Mayor of Torit Municipal Council, confirmed the ban, highlighting that many plots in residential and business areas have been sold to more than three individuals. He emphasized that the government is actively working to restore the rights of those whose plots were unlawfully sold, and individuals found engaging in such sales will be held accountable.
“Yes, I am aware; I am the one who initiated the idea regarding the issues with land and plots within the municipality. There is an alarming situation unfolding in our municipal lands and residential areas, such as Omoliha Market, Iluhum, or Morwari, where the same plot has three different plot numbers. This practice is not attributed to all the staff working in housing, but rather to specific individuals who are illicitly selling plots within Torit. They have sold numerous places, and we are committed to restoring the rights of the affected individuals. Those found guilty will be held accountable,” he explained.
Efforts to reach the State Ministry of Land, Housing, and Public Utilities for comment were unsuccessful.