Maharaj: Stop Playing Politics With Cane Farmers
FIJI NEWS
Opposition MP Alvick Maharaj is urging cane farmers across Fiji to begin harvesting their crops despite concerns surrounding the forecasted cane price.
Maharaj said there is understandable anxiety among growers regarding the announced forecast price, but stressed that it should not be viewed as the final payout farmers will ultimately receive.
"This is a forecast price, not the final word. History and economic reality show that under no circumstances can the final payout remain at this baseline. The Government will inevitably have to step in to ensure a higher and more sustainable return for our growers," he said.
However, Maharaj said farmers require immediate assistance to begin the harvesting season and called on Government to provide financial support to cover startup costs.
"We must bridge the immediate gap. Farmers need cash in hand right now to cover transportation, cane cutting labour and other operational expenses associated with the start of the season."
He urged relevant ministries to ensure assistance is made available without delay.
Maharaj also criticised political figures who have encouraged farmers to boycott harvesting in protest over the forecasted price.
"To those politicians telling farmers to leave their cane standing in the fields, stop playing politics with the livelihoods of our people," he said.
"When a farmer leaves their crop to rot, it is not politicians who suffer the consequences. It is the farmer and their family who lose their income. Those encouraging a boycott will not be the ones putting food on the table."
Maharaj said the focus should remain on securing the best possible return for growers while ensuring the harvest proceeds.
"Let us put the welfare of our farmers ahead of political point-scoring. Let the harvest begin, let us work collectively, and the Opposition will continue to pressure Government to secure the highest possible final price for our growers."
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