Opposition Member of Parliament, Praveen Bala, has voiced strong criticism against the government for not fulfilling its promise to build a new sugar mill in Rakiraki, emphasizing that this unfulfilled commitment has left local farmers and the community in dire straits. During a parliamentary discussion regarding a government guarantee for the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC), Bala highlighted the detrimental impact of the mill’s absence on farmers, who are forced to endure lengthy transportation of their sugarcane. Many of them are facing agonizing waits of two to three days at the Lautoka Mill to offload their produce.
“The promise of a new mill for Rakiraki—where is it? Its continued absence is a betrayal,” Bala stated, pointing out that truck drivers coming from areas like Rakiraki, Ba, and Tavua must often spend nights parked at the mill due to excessive delays.
Bala stressed that Rakiraki and neighboring towns are largely dependent on the FSC for their economic lifeblood. “For Tavua, we may mention Fiji Water, but the rest of us are still fully tied to the sugar industry,” he explained. Despite the criticism, Bala confirmed the Opposition’s conditional support for the government guarantee, underscoring that it was motivated by the urgent needs of the struggling farmers and mill workers in these communities.
He urged the government to take immediate action and prioritize the infrastructure commitments crucial for the survival of rural economies. “This is not just about machinery; it’s about livelihoods, dignity, and the survival of Rakiraki’s economy,” he added.
This criticism resonates with previous statements made by Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Parveen Kumar, who has similarly condemned the government for failing to deliver on the new mill proposal made during the 2022 elections. Kumar has repeatedly labeled the government’s promises as misleading political rhetoric that lacks genuine commitment, exacerbating the mistrust among farmers.
The ongoing discussions about the need for new infrastructure in the sugar industry build on a growing sentiment among farmers. Many are increasingly frustrated with the recurring breakdowns and delays at the existing mills, which significantly hinder their productivity and economic viability. Stakeholders continue to advocate for a modern sugar mill in Viti Levu, viewing it as a critical step toward revitalizing the beleaguered sugar industry and ensuring a sustainable future for farmers in the region.
Overall, there remains a hopeful outlook among community members who believe that with the right infrastructure and support, Rakiraki’s sugar industry can not only survive but potentially thrive, restoring livelihoods and economic stability in the region.