MMA/ADA calls out APNU MP over false accusations of corruption

– Authority mulls legal proceedings

The Mahaica Mahaicony Abary/Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA) has refuted several claims made by Opposition Member of Parliament Vinceroy Jordan with Vice Chairman of the authority, Zaid Rafoodeen mulling legal proceedings.
In a statement on Monday, the MMA/ADA slammed Jordan for what it described as baseless accusations, noting the importance of individuals seeking factual information and avoiding the allure of sensationalism.
Jordan in a missive had called for the Agriculture Ministry to investigate claims of land grabbing and misuse of machinery and fuel, naming Rafoodeen. However, this was debunked by the MMA/ADA, which made it clear that Rafoodeen, a rice farmer, has had no new lands allocated to him and further, that he will be taking legal action for Jordan’s untrue assertions.

“It should be noted that Mr. Rafoodeen is an age-old rice farmer who has been occupying lands within the MMA/ADA and no new lands were ever allocated to him, after sitting as a director who is representing farmers on the board. Mr. Rafoodeen has indicated to the board that he will take legal actions,” the MMA/ADA said.
The authority also dispelled accusations of covering up instances of malpractice from its staff, noting that there was an instance of misappropriation which was recently uncovered and immediately dealt with by the MMA/ADA.
According to the MMA/ADA, it “wishes to categorically reject the false claims made by PNCR/APNU’s Mr. Vinceroy Jordan, M.P on social media that is clearly aimed at irresponsibly disseminating false narratives. These allegations, characterized by their sensationalized nature, propagate a dishonest narrative.”
“The organization assures its stakeholders and the general public that any situation of misconduct and misappropriation of money were always investigated and the necessary disciplinary actions taken. The records are there to be verified,” the authority stated.

The MMA/ADA also noted that a recent instance of malpractice by a supervisor was also uncovered and that the Board of Directors had ordered an investigation. Following the submission of a report, the necessary actions were taken.
“It is the duty of the MMA/ADA to uphold the principles of integrity and transparency according to its mandate, duties and service to farmers. The authority recognizes the profound impact that misinformation can have on public perception and the reputations of those involved within the organization.”
“To set the records straight, the authority has been performing excellently, accounting for multiple successes over the past four years under the stewardship of the PPP/C Administration. These investments that are being made now have been able to cushion the hard effects that affected the lives of over 2000 farmers, during the APNU+AFC reign in office.”
It was pointed out that under the coalition government, their focus was on leasing land to their cronies, with a former chairman allocating over 10,000 acres of land to his company, at the expense of others.
“If the lands were distributed fairly, this could have seen over 200 farmers benefitting from the same space to cultivate and earn an income for themselves and their families. Additionally, Former President Granger revoked validly granted leases for over 50 farmers within the MMA/ADA scheme and it was the PPP/C, while in Opposition, that took the matter to court and represented the farmers and the court ruled in favour of the farmers.”
“Further, D&I charges and land rental were increased from $3,500 to $15,000. Most of the drainage systems were clogged and were in terrible conditions. Over 700 miles of drainage and irrigation channels were abandoned, causing farmers to leave their farmlands and an increase in cattle mortality.”
It was pointed out that under the APNU/AFC, farm-to-market access roads were neglected and a massive decline in the cost per bag of paddy, to as little as $2200 per bag. Further, the seed plant was falling apart and only producing 2000 bags per crop.
“Now it’s over 30,000 bags per crop. Additionally, all the cattle pasture land was left to be overgrown. What could be deemed as a major neglect too, was the fact that the former Minister of Agriculture had little to no interactions with farmers. Today, regular, weekly consultations are being held with farmers.”
“With dedicated leadership, this organization remains committed to fostering an environment rooted in accountability and professionalism, and has always encouraged open dialogue and constructive criticism,” the authority also said.
Meanwhile, the MMA/ADA made it clear that it will not condone the reckless dissemination of baseless accusations, in this case from the opposition, which seeks to undermine the hard work and dedication of its staff and stakeholders.
The entire Region Five drainage and irrigation network, which includes residential areas, depends on the MMA/ADA. That agency overlooks all of the primary drainage systems in the Region. (G-3)