Dear Editor,
The Oxfam situation report on the flood response in Guyana has provoked my reaction. It is the misrepresentation of situations − apart from the fact that those who are alien to our culture lack an understanding of the socio-economic and political realities − that propels a negative image of Guyana. Let me say though there are a number of genuine and dedicated NGOs working to improve conditions and the welfare of people.
Let us examine Transpar-ency International (TI) as an example of a group funded to study transparency and accountability in various countries.
TI’s methodology in pronouncing on the Guyana situation is unscientific and seriously flawed. Persons who are generally unfriendly to the government are interviewed, and their biased perspective forms the basis for a report which is then baptized and released as gospel.
Oxfam’s case is another example of the extent to which some organizations are prepared to go to satisfy their own agenda.
“The objective for such incomplete and inaccurate conclusions is a mystery,” said Deputy Permanent Secretary Brian Greenidge in response to the report released by Oxfam.
Why would any organization mindful of its reputation release a report that lacks thorough assessment and inputs? This is just a classic example of playing on situations to attract funding opportunities.
It is even more convincing because in the report Oxfam contended that with the temporary suspension of the DIPECHO programme and the lack of information coming from the flooded areas, it had decided to send out a team for a rapid assessment of the situation considering that the rain would probably continue until the end of March. It was also reported that Oxfam was supporting the CDC in enforcing its role, and trying to activate other stakeholders for a joint assessment.
It is no secret that from day one of the December rains, government officials, including ministers and CDC representatives were on the ground assessing communities.
Many of these organisations have used situations for their own gain and mileage. We need to address the governance of NGOs now. Let us bring them under the microscope.
Yours faithfully,
L Daniels
