The National Federation Party (NFP) has called upon Fiji Labour Party (FLP) leader Mahendra Chaudhry to substantiate claims that the NFP promised a cane payment of $110 per tonne during the 2022 elections. This challenge arises with ongoing discontent among cane farmers regarding the recently announced third payment of $12.23 per tonne for the 2024 harvest.
Chaudhry has asserted that the coalition, comprising NFP and the People’s Alliance Party (PAP), committed to raising the minimum guaranteed price to $110 per tonne if elected, a pledge he argues remains unfulfilled. In contrast, NFP President Parmod Chand has labeled Chaudhry a “shameless politician,” arguing that his accusations stem from a desire to undermine NFP leader and Deputy Prime Minister, Professor Biman Prasad, in light of Chaudhry’s own political difficulties.
Chand noted that cane growers were compensated over $91 per tonne for 2023, significantly surpassing the guaranteed price, and that in fact, 2024’s payments reached an all-time high of $101.08 per tonne before Diwali. He emphasized that the current government backs and respects cane growers, contrasting their approach with what he perceives as Chaudhry’s history of exploiting farmers for political gain.
This situation illustrates the continuing tensions between Fiji’s political parties, reflecting a broader narrative of accountability and responsibility as the government seeks to uphold its commitments to the agricultural community. The exchanges highlight how historical claims and current realities intersect in shaping public trust and political discourse in Fiji.
The ongoing dialogue also offers a glimmer of hope; if both parties focus on constructive debate, they can contribute positively to the political landscape, ensuring that farmers’ voices are heard and valued in future policymaking.
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