The National Farmers Union (NFU) has called for an investigation into serious allegations concerning arson attempts at the Lautoka and Rarawai sugar mills. NFU General Secretary Mahendra Chaudhry has also pressed for scrutiny of Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh, accusing him of disseminating false information and causing alarm within the sugar sector.
Chaudhry has criticized Singh’s assertions, suggesting they lack evidence and highlight the minister’s failure to address pressing issues facing the sugar industry. The National Fire Authority has attributed fire incidents at the Rarawai mill to diesel fuel, machinery malfunctions, and electrical components, challenging the minister’s speculative claims.
Tensions have heightened following Singh’s alarming statements regarding intentional arson attacks on sugarcane farms, which have already resulted in the destruction of over 5,000 tonnes of sugarcane in recent months. Such incidents pose severe risks not only to individual farmers but also to the broader agricultural landscape.
Moreover, the NFU has expressed concern over operational inefficiencies at the Lautoka Sugar Mill, which has contended with mechanical failures, leading to significant financial losses for farmers. Chaudhry has criticized the continuous shutdowns at the mill, emphasizing the need for accountability from both Singh and the mill’s management to prevent further setbacks.
On a more optimistic note, there are ongoing discussions about improvements, including a proposed rehabilitation package from the government aimed at providing financial assistance to affected farmers. This initiative reflects a commitment to resilience and highlights the collaborative efforts among agricultural stakeholders to foster a more stable future for Fiji’s sugar industry.
In the face of these challenges, the partnership between farmers, the government, and industry leaders suggests promising avenues for revitalizing Fiji’s sugar sector, aiming for sustainability and prosperity for all involved.