FCDCL boss quits to contest election

Sachida Nand has officially resigned as CEO of the Fiji Co-operative Dairy Company Limited (FCDCL) effective immediately.

The Board of FCDCL thanked Mr Nand for his years of service to the Fiji Dairy industry.

Mr. Nand is standing for FijiFirst in the forthcoming election. Advice from the company lawyers indicated FCDCL “is a business that was established pursuant to a written law” as such the company officers and Board Members could be considered to hold public office under the 2013 constitution.

This meant that Mr Nand would have to resign in order to stand for the election.

The company received his letter of resignation this week and Mr. Nand’s last day at the office was yesterday (Friday). At a board meeting earlier this week, Kushmendra Prasad was appointed acting CEO. The Board will advertise the CEO’s position in due course. Mr Nand has led FCDCL through some very difficult times for the dairy industry. He started with the company soon after the separation process was complete and worked to rebuild a profitable farmers co-operative.

He has also worked with farmers during the difficult period when TB was seriously affecting farmer returns. He has been an integral part in developing an industry response with Government to assist farmers through this difficult time.

“Mr Nand made an outstanding contribution to FCDCL as its CEO,” said chairman Simon Cole.

“We wish Mr. Nand well with his political ambitions and believe he will always hold the industry close to his heart.