The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) is appealing to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to remove Charan Jeath Singh from his role as Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry due to his alleged persistent bullying and inappropriate conduct. According to FWCC coordinator Shamima Ali, Singh’s behavior is not reflective of the dignity expected from a national leader, particularly highlighting his recent public reprimands directed at a senior civil servant and threats to dismantle the cane fields of hard-working farmers.
Ali stated, “His recent public outbursts in the castigation of a senior civil servant must not be ignored” and stressed the importance of maintaining dignity in leadership roles. The FWCC emphasized that anyone who fails to treat Fijians with respect does not deserve to hold a national position. They called for the Public Service Commission to ensure any disciplinary actions that may ensue are conducted fairly and without bias, emphasizing the significance of workers’ rights.
This recent backlash echoes earlier criticisms leveled by other organizations concerning Singh’s leadership style within the sugar industry. For instance, the National Farmers Union has also raised alarms about Singh’s confrontational approach and its negative impact on relationships with industry stakeholders, notably after an incident where he publicly chastised the CEO of the Fiji Sugar Corporation.
The ongoing discussions surrounding Singh’s conduct highlight a broader concern regarding accountability and respectful governance in Fiji. There is a prevailing hope that addressing these issues could foster positive reforms within the government, bolstering the agricultural sector and renewing confidence among local farmers and the wider community. By upholding ethical standards in public service, Fiji can work towards a more equitable and respectful political culture.
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