Heated exchanges force police intervention at Ba sugar industry talks

A public consultation on the future of Fiji's sugar industry was briefly suspended yesterday after a heated disagreement between cane farmers and a presenter erupted into shouting, prompting police to intervene.

The consultation at the Ba Civic Centre, chaired by Sugar Industry Minister Tomasi Tunabuna, was attended by members of the Special Committee on Sugar, including Government ministers and Opposition MPs.

The disruption followed a presentation by Nukuloa farmer and PAFCO chairman Ranjan Charan, who proposed that farmers receive 60 per cent of the guaranteed minimum cane price of $85 as an initial payment to improve cash flow.

Mr Charan said immediately increasing the guaranteed minimum price would place additional pressure on the industry, but paying farmers 60 per cent of the guaranteed price upfront would provide immediate financial relief.

His proposal drew strong objections from some farmers, who interrupted his presentation and demanded that his microphone be removed.

The disagreement escalated into a shouting match, with several farmers walking out of the meeting before police stepped in as committee members worked to restore order.

Mr Tunabuna appealed to those present to respect differing views and allow everyone the opportunity to speak.

The meeting later resumed after several farmers returned.

The Special Committee on Sugar is conducting consultations throughout Fiji's cane-growing districts to gather feedback before making recommendations on the future of the sugar industry.