Parmod Chand, the President of the National Federation Party (NFP), has accused Mahendra Chaudhry, the leader of the Fiji Labour Party (FLP), of intentionally misrepresenting the government’s recent payment announcements for sugar cane growers. This accusation stems from Chaudhry’s remarks after Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced a significant top-up of $8.27 per tonne on the final cane payment, elevating it to $9.47 per tonne ahead of Diwali, resulting in a total price of $101.13 per tonne for the last season.
Chand criticized Chaudhry for what he deemed a continuation of misleading claims that have historically harmed other political figures and governmental ministers within the Coalition. He noted that Chaudhry labeled the original top-up of $1.20 as an insult to growers, which prompts Chand to demand accountability for Chaudhry’s assertion on social media.
Highlighting the positive developments in sugar cane payments, Chand emphasized that growers have benefited from record pay over the last three years—$91 in 2023, $105 the previous year, and significantly more than the guaranteed price of $85. He further pointed out that from 2019 to 2022, growers were short-changed by the previous regime, receiving nearly $14 million less than they were due.
Chand also raised concerns about Chaudhry’s various roles across different positions in the Labour Party and the National Farmers Union, asserting that they create a conflict of interest and violate the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding & Disclosures) Act. He emphasized that the Coalition Government is working towards restoring fairness and justice within the industry, which he claims was undermined during Chaudhry’s tenure as Finance and Sugar Minister.
In response, Chaudhry urged The Fiji Times to confirm the figures with the Sugar Industry Tribunal, arguing that the government did not contribute the entire top-up amount. He defended his credentials and stated that claims against him about breaching the Code of Conduct are premature since they only take effect during electoral periods.
This ongoing political clash not only sheds light on the tensions within Fijian politics but also emphasizes the importance of integrity, accountability, and a commitment to agricultural policies that genuinely reflect the needs of farmers. The dialogue, though contentious, offers hope for constructive political reform and a revitalized focus on the welfare of the agricultural community, paving the way for a more stable and trustworthy governance structure in Fiji.