“If you don’t like me, don’t vote for me”. These were the words of Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry Minister Charan Jeath Singh, as he rejected claims that government grant distributions were part of an election campaign.
“Of course, this is not, as our critics are saying, an election gimmick,” he said.
Mr Singh said there was some criticism on social media and from political opponents, accusing the Government of using community grants for political gain.
“The election is going to happen two years from now. Those people who couldn’t deliver are now trying to say that we are going through an election campaign.”
He said the Government was simply doing its job by providing support to communities in need.
“Don’t take the Government wrong. We are giving whatever assistance we think is right for you people.”
He said the publicity on social media of handing out of grants was to make the public aware of the assistance available.
“We have to publicise. We have to tell people what we are doing; otherwise people won’t know.”
He encouraged communities to apply for the assistance readily available.
