Mahendra Chaudhry, General Secretary of the National Farmers Union (NFU), has asserted that cane farmers are a testament to the National Federation Party’s (NFP) campaign promise of a guaranteed price of $110 per tonne for cane during the 2022 elections. This statement responds to NFP President Parmod Chand’s accusations, where he labeled Chaudhry a liar and demanded proof of such a claim. Chaudhry emphasized that the Hansard Report from September 15, 2023, contains evidence supporting hundreds of farmers’ assertions about this promise.
Chaudhry referenced a parliamentary ruling from Speaker Rt. Naiqama Lalabalavu regarding a similar claim made by Opposition MP Praveen Bala, who stated that the NFP had promised the $110 payment. The Speaker concluded that Bala had provided sufficient evidence, meaning the matter would not be escalated to the Privileges Committee.
In a passionate response, Chaudhry challenged Chand to reconsider who is truly lying, highlighting the NFP’s past actions as politically exploitative. He accused the party and its leaders of making empty promises to earn votes without any intention of fulfilling them, asking Chand to be accountable to the cane farmers who have historically relied on these assurances.
Chaudhry’s sentiments reflect growing discontent within the agricultural community regarding unfulfilled promises, particularly concerning the recent announcement of a mere $12.23 payment per tonne for the 2024 harvest. This dissatisfaction coincides with the NFP’s commitment to providing accurate and fulfilling payments, which has been an ongoing issue in Fijian politics.
The article highlights a critical facet of governance in Fiji’s political landscape, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency. As the dialogue continues between these political figures, it holds the potential for constructive outcomes if both parties can engage meaningfully on agricultural policy and the broader issues affecting voters. Encouragingly, the commitment to addressing these concerns could lead to meaningful reforms that prioritize the rights and welfare of farmers in Fiji.
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