In a resounding declaration of zero tolerance, the sugar minister has issued a stern warning against any hint of corruption within the industry.

Speaking during a press conference today, Charan Jeath Singh highlighted that some Fiji Sugar Corporation employees have been sent home due to alleged corrupt practices.

Singh says the alleged cases have been forwarded to the relevant authorities for further action.

He adds that there are several cases that are under investigation.

“There are other field officers and farm advisors who are not performing on the farm. They’re going out, demanding favours from the farmers. And once those things come in black and white, I will reveal them. But I’m going to warn everybody—the farmers, farm advisors, the field office, and FSC workers—that if you are not there with a full heart to support the industry, just get out of it.”

Singh says they are committed to transparency and integrity.

Meanwhile, Singh has also provided an update on the former Fiji Sugar Corporation chief executive officer, Abdul Khan.

Singh says the allegations against Khan involve multiple acts of financial malfeasance, breaches of the Income Tax and Exchange Control Acts, conflicts of interest, and abuse of office while he was the CEO and Executive Chair of FSC.