Opposition MP Jone Usamate has sharply criticized former Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh, claiming that his recent reassignment signals an end to a detrimental chapter for the struggling sugar industry. Usamate contended that this move was not a mere reshuffle but rather a “mercy killing” for a sector he believes could no longer endure Singh’s leadership.
In his statement, Usamate accused Singh of prioritizing international travel while neglecting the serious challenges faced by the sugar industry. He described Singh’s tenure as one marked by lavish spending on travel and little tangible support for the farmers, stating, “For three years, we were treated to a masterclass in global tourism disguised as ministerial work.” He highlighted Singh’s travel expenses, which included over $138,000 for his trips and more than $111,000 for the chairman’s travels, while local farmers struggled without the promised support.
Usamate’s criticism extended to Singh’s failure to deliver on assurances made in Parliament. He pointed out that while Singh offered commitments regarding the industry’s welfare, the reality on the ground painted a different picture, with 85,000 tonnes of cane left unharvested and rotting—a stark contrast to the promises made. This situation, Usamate argued, represents a betrayal of the farming families who relied on their crops for survival.
He also condemned Singh’s inadequate response to requests for assistance and compensation from farmers: “When farmers asked for help, he gave them ‘the rules’. When they asked for compensation, he gave them ‘politics’,” illustrating Singh’s detachment from the struggles of the agricultural community.
In a notable commentary on Singh’s reassignment to the Culture and Heritage portfolio, Usamate remarked on the symbolic nature of the move, suggesting that it reflects how the sugar industry has become a relic of the past, rather than a vibrant part of the country’s economy. Usamate concluded with a pointed observation, “You don’t move a winner,” indicating that Singh’s relocation was indicative of leadership failure rather than progress.
This exchange underscores the ongoing challenges in the sugar industry and the critical need for effective leadership and support for local farmers. The emphasis on addressing these issues is crucial for the rejuvenation of a sector that serves as a vital source of livelihood for many families.