Legal manager of the Sugar Cane Growers Fund, Sheetal Chetty, has recently advocated for the implementation of criminal record and bankruptcy checks for candidates vying for election to the Sugar Cane Growers Council. During the Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights’ discussions on the amendments proposed in the Sugar Industry Bill 2024, Chetty raised concerns regarding the vague definition of a registered cane grower. She emphasized that the term is broad and could allow questionable candidates to qualify.
In her remarks, Chetty also questioned whether an overseas registered cane grower, who holds a significant amount of cane on their property, could participate in elections, particularly when represented through a power of attorney. Furthermore, she highlighted the potential complications that may arise if such a power is revoked at any point.
In response to Chetty’s inquiries, committee chairperson Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure acknowledged that the existing Sugar Industry Act of 1984 lacked a specific definition for a registered sugarcane grower. He clarified that the current Bill does not address the power of attorney provisions in relation to standing for elections, indicating that it only pertains to voting under specific circumstances—namely, if the grower is unwell or located outside the country.
Ratu Rakuita assured that the revocation of power of attorney would be managed through the checks and balances established by the Registrar Tribunal and the council’s CEO.
The proposed Sugar Industry (Amendment) Bill 2024 aims to modify the existing Act to facilitate elections for council members and update the criteria for council participation, reestablishing guidelines to ensure transparency and eligibility in the electoral process.
In essence, these discussions represent an important step towards enhancing governance within the sugar cane industry. By ensuring rigorous vetting processes for candidates, stakeholders aim to uphold the integrity of the elections within the Sugar Cane Growers Council. This possibility for reform could lead to greater accountability and better representation in an essential sector of the economy.
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