At a community event in Lautoka, Fiji, Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh expressed his frustration with his acting Permanent Secretary, Reshmi Kumari, for not allowing media attendance at the opening of the Lautoka mill’s 2025 crushing season. During his speech, Singh emphasized the importance of transparency and communication in the sugar industry, criticizing her decision which he believed hindered public awareness about the industry’s challenges. He stated, “Because people should know what I am speaking about in every industry, the message should be very clear about this industry because this industry has been failing.”
Singh’s remarks come in light of ongoing issues facing Fiji’s sugar industry, which has seen significant declines in production. He has previously called for more accountability from officials within the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) and emphasized the importance of community engagement. His comments today serve as a reminder of the need for leadership that prioritizes effective communication and responsibility, especially when addressing public concerns.
This incident is not isolated. Minister Singh has been under scrutiny recently due to previous incidents, where his dismissive attitude towards public safety issues raised serious concerns about the accountability of public officials. In light of this, Singh’s call for better messaging and community connections may be viewed as a crucial step towards rebuilding trust between the government and constituents.
As the sugar industry continues to face significant challenges, ministers like Singh must focus on fostering an environment of open dialogue and responsiveness to cultivate a more supportive atmosphere for both farmers and the community at large. There is a hopeful outlook that with additional focus and renewed commitment to agricultural practices, Fiji’s sugar sector can experience rejuvenation and recovery.
Leave a comment