Minister from Vanua Levu' Defends Move to Speak Out

Cabinet minister has defended his decision to speak on matters outside the ambit of his ministerial portfolio.

Sugar and Multi-Ethnic Affairs minister Charan Jeath Singh has made several public comments about developments about Fiji Airports, which falls under Aviation minister Viliame Gavoka, chaired by Hasmukh Patel, and chief executive officer Mesake Nawari.

Jump The Gun

Mr Singh, a veteran business leader, and member of The People’s Alliance, who branched out of Labasa to build chain store grocery markets on the mainland, has made several attempts to revive the ailing sugar industry.

He was a Member of Parliament in the late 1990s, under the National Federation Party ticket.

On one occasion, Mr Singh said a contract was awarded for the overhaul of Labasa Airport even though expressions of interest for the project were yet to be advertised.

“I comment only as minister from Vanua Levu, when people ask me what’s happening regarding the airport development and upgrade,” he told SunBiz yesterday.

“Whatever I commented was after I discussed with Fiji Airports chief executive officer.”

SunBiz’s queries to Mr Nawari were unanswered when this edition went to print.

Northern Representation

The Government has a handful of Cabinet ministers who are from the Northern Division, which include Finance minister Biman Singh, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, and Lands and Mineral Resources minister Filimoni Vosarogo.

President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere - who according to earlier reports will extend his term in office – is also from the Northern Division, where he presides as Tui Macuata.

Most Cabinet ministers with links to the Northern Division are not known to speak beyond the confines of their respective portfolios, unless where absolutely necessary.

Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj