The Concerned Citizens of Komenda Traditional Area have officially notified authorities of their intention to hold a demonstration on Tuesday, August 13, 2024.
This action is in accordance with Section 1 clause 1 of the Public Order Act, 1994 (Act 491), which mandates that any individual or group planning a public event must inform the police at least five days prior.
The protest seeks to address key grievances related to the Komenda Sugar Factory and government policies affecting local agriculture.
The demonstration’s primary objectives include reversing the government’s decision to import raw sugar and reinstating the Komenda Sugar Factory’s original mission of using local sugarcane from outgrowers.
The group demands the annulment of the lease agreement with the Indian company, citing non-compliance with procedural requirements and inadequate stakeholder engagement.
“Our community’s livelihood is being jeopardized by these decisions. We must take action to safeguard our economic interests,” stated a representative from the Concerned Citizens group.
Organizers anticipate a turnout of at least 2,000 participants from the Komenda Traditional Area and surrounding regions.
The demonstration is set to commence at 6:00 AM in Komenda township, concluding at Komenda Junction by 1:30 PM.
The Concerned Citizens have expressed their eagerness for a prompt response from the authorities, underscoring the urgency and importance of their civic action.
