MINDCAF: Upholding Integrity in State property, surveys and land tenure management Provisional Suspension of 21 MINDCAF Employees for Fraud and Ethical Breaches
On the 21st of November 2025, the Minister of State Property, Surveys and Land Tenure took a major decision to put an end to improper practices within his Ministry. This measure entails a four-month provisional suspension of 21 MINDCAF staff members. The aim of this operation is to restore integrity and public trust in the Ministry responsible for land management.
Alarming irregularities: The staff involved, including engineers and skilled technicians, were found to have committed serious breaches of ethical and professional standards within the Ministry. These violations include falsification of land registry maps, improper withholding of files, overcharging for services and repeated fraudulent activities. Such unscrupulous behaviour is not limited to individual misconduct; it undermines the credibility of the entire public administration as far as land management is concerned.
A strict regulatory framework: This suspension is based on Article 35 of Decree No. 94/199 of 7 October 1994, which defines the essential obligations of civil servants: dedication, impartiality, obedience, discretion and professional conduct. By failing to adhere to these principles, the employees under investigation not only neglected their duties, but also exposed the administration to legal and ethical risks.
Consequently, clear and immediate sanctions have been imposed: during the suspension period, those staff members will be relieved of their duties and their salaries withheld, although family allowances will continue to be paid. Furthermore, in order to mitigate the adverse effects of their actions, any decisions taken by these staff members during their service are declared null and void.
Commitment to Integrity: The Minister reassured the public of MINDCAF’s commitment to conducting procedures rigorously. He also called for a general mobilisation within the Ministry to ensure that files are processed efficiently and promptly, thereby meeting users' expectations.
This operation is not only a response to unethical conduct; it also conveys a strong message: integrity and service to the community remain at the core of the public service. Hopefully, this initiative will be seen as an opportunity to strengthen the image of the public administration and restore public confidence.
Nic Didace BEKEAKEN
