Mahendra Chaudhry, the General Secretary of the National Farmers Union, has voiced strong concerns regarding the rights of absentee farmers, similar to those of absentee landlords, highlighting the legal protections that should be upheld. This issue has gained urgency among cane farmers and tenants of both native and State land, who feel increasingly insecure about their leases under the current Rabuka Coalition government, particularly due to what they perceive as reckless comments made by officials.
Chaudhry has raised alarming reports from tenants who claim their valid leases are under threat from the iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB) and the Lands Department, calling into question their entitlement to renew their tenures. He emphasizes that negative attitudes surrounding agricultural leases could hinder the growth and sustainability of the agricultural sector.
Looking back at previous issues highlighted, there have been ongoing criticisms regarding the management of agricultural leases, especially concerning iTaukei land governance. Landowners have expressed grievances about how lease rents and premiums are established, arguing that they have been robbed of fair compensation. Since the last review of land values in 2011, many claim to have faced substantial income losses, totaling millions.
While some have suggested that high rental fees are driving farmers away from the industry, investigations reveal a more complicated situation, where factors like low productivity, high operational costs, and outdated farming practices also play significant roles. To address these challenges, it is increasingly essential for all stakeholders in the agricultural sector to engage in meaningful dialogue, fostering cooperation and crafting equitable solutions that benefit both farmers and landowners.
This scenario illustrates a complex relationship between lease agreements and the sustainability of agriculture, yet it also presents an opportunity for positive change. Constructive discussions could lead to much-needed reforms that would not only protect farmers’ rights but also enhance the agricultural landscape in Fiji. Such developments could lead to a revitalized focus on agricultural viability and food security, ultimately supporting local communities and farmers. The prospects for collaboration and improvement offer hope for a brighter future in Fiji’s agricultural sector.
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