Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has sharply criticized the opposition’s recent outreach to rice farmers, describing their actions as “opportunistic.” This criticism comes as opposition leaders, including Nigel Hughes of the Alliance for Change (AFC), have been visiting farming communities in Region Six, particularly Black Bush Polder.
Background on the Opposition’s Actions
Jagdeo pointed out that during their time in government, the opposition neglected rice farmers and failed to address their concerns. In contrast, the PPP/C administration has consistently supported farming communities, even when they were in opposition. Jagdeo highlighted that his government has invested heavily in infrastructure for farmers, including the construction of hundreds of concrete roads and enhancements to drainage and irrigation systems. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve conditions for rice farmers and ensure their long-term viability.
Government Support for Rice Farmers
The current administration has taken several significant steps to support rice farmers. These include providing financial compensation during major floods, distributing free fertilizer and seed paddy, and working to open new international markets for Guyanese rice. Jagdeo emphasized that these efforts reflect a long-term commitment to the agriculture sector, aimed at ensuring rice farmers thrive despite global market challenges.
Moreover, the government has reversed taxes on land rentals, which had previously burdened farmers. This move has helped reduce operational costs for farmers, allowing them to invest more in their crops. Additionally, the government has been working on initiatives to enhance rice production and quality, including the introduction of high-yield varieties and improved farming techniques.
Opposition’s Past Policies
Jagdeo also criticized the opposition’s past policies, noting that they dismissed over 7,000 sugar workers and pushed rice farming as a private venture without adequate support. He contrasted this with the PPP/C’s proactive engagement with farmers, which has included direct interventions during difficult times. The opposition’s approach, Jagdeo argued, was shortsighted and failed to consider the long-term implications for the agriculture sector.
Current Challenges Facing Rice Farmers
Rice farmers are currently facing significant challenges due to declining global rice prices and an oversupply of rice in the local market. The government is working on solutions, including securing new markets and promoting domestic use of rice to stabilize prices. An agreement has been reached to ensure farmers receive a minimum of $4,000 per bag of paddy, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting them during this difficult period.
Furthermore, the government is exploring ways to enhance the competitiveness of Guyanese rice in international markets. This includes improving quality standards and negotiating better trade agreements with countries that import Guyanese rice. These efforts aim to ensure that rice farmers can maintain profitability despite global market fluctuations.
Community Reaction
Farmers have expressed frustration over low paddy prices, staging protests in Black Bush Polder to demand higher prices from millers. The government’s assurance that farmers will not be paid less than $4,000 per bag has been welcomed, though concerns about market access and global competition remain. The community is closely watching the government’s efforts to address these challenges and ensure the sustainability of the rice industry.
In summary, Jagdeo’s criticism of the opposition highlights the perceived insincerity of their recent efforts to engage with rice farmers. The government’s ongoing support for the agriculture sector contrasts with the opposition’s past policies, which are seen as neglectful and damaging to the industry. As the situation unfolds, the government’s commitment to supporting rice farmers remains a central issue in Guyana’s political landscape.
