Government Targets New Owners as NHDC Empty Houses Face Repossession

In a significant policy shift aimed at curbing social housing abuse, the Government has announced it will begin reclaiming National Housing Development Company (NHDC) properties left vacant by their owners.

The Housing Minister, Shakeel Mohamed, confirmed the new enforcement measure on Saturday, 24 January, during an appearance on the radio programme La Voix Moris.

Under the new directive, any beneficiary found to be leaving their state-provided home unoccupied faces the immediate repossession of the property by the State.

Focus on New Beneficiaries

Minister Mohamed clarified that this strict “use it or lose it” policy is not retrospective.

The measure will apply specifically to new beneficiaries who have been allocated housing under the mandate of the current administration.

Crackdown on Past Abuses

During the broadcast, the Minister took a firm stance against what he described as abusive practices regarding the allocation and subsequent use of NHDC houses.

He specifically highlighted irregularities that allegedly took place under the previous regime, suggesting that the new repossession rules are a direct response to historical mismanagement of the housing stock.

“The Ministry of Housing and Lands is hardening its tone against the abuse of NHDC houses.”

The government maintains that these houses are intended for those in active need of shelter, and leaving them empty deprives other eligible citizens of a home.

Source: Defi Media