Govt not using military to intimidate voters – Former Deputy Agric Minister

Dr. Sugri Bamagne, the former Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, has dismissed claims that the government’s deployment of the military to the northern part of the country is to intimidate voters rather than enforce the ban on grain exports.

He emphasised that the government’s primary focus is on ensuring food security.

The accusation was made by James Agalga, a member of the minority in Parliament, on Friday, August 30, 2024.

Agalga alleged that the military deployment was a disguise for voter intimidation under the pretence of enforcing the grain export ban.

However, speaking on “The Big Issues” on Channel One TV, Dr Bamagne reiterated that the government’s top priority is securing the nation’s food supply, which he believes should take precedence over any other concerns.

“As we sit now because we are looking at the food security situation, it is national security. If we are not able to make ourselves food secure then it can lead to chaos.

“So, I don’t know what some people are thinking. I head the minority side of parliament even talking about elections and intimidation of voters and all those things and I said while the minister is thinking of food, some people are thinking of votes.

“I find it a bit absurd. Because we have to feed ourselves before we think about any other thing,” he stated.