07 Jun 2015

The frequent requests for duplicate land right certificates from land boards is a worrying trend that could prove costly for applicants, says the minister of Lands and Housing, Mr Prince Maele.

Addressing a kgotla meeting at Paje recently, Mr Maele said the trend was a result of carelessness and fraud motivations, among other factors.

The minister disputed that individuals used duplicate certificates to swindle money out of unsuspecting members of the public under the pretext that they were selling plots.

He said a swindler may amass four duplicates of one original plot certificate and later use them to dupe people into paying deposits for the same plot.

“This is appalling and the ministry could be compelled to increase the fees charged for issuing duplicate plot certificates,” he warned.

Regarding lease rental arrears, Mr Maele said he would consult the government with a view to make it a pre-requite for tenants to produce proof of payment when asking for services such as a CEDA loan, renewal of a trading license or submission of a building plan.

“If a church submits a plan to physical planning offices for a new structure, they will have to show proof that they have paid a lease rental,” he exemplified.

On other issues, the minister cautioned Batswana to stop the habit of selling their plots to foreigners, saying they could lose all of it if they were not careful.

“You should lease your plots instead of selling them,” he advised.  ENDS