Dear Editor,
I’m sure many Guyanese and observers do not recall a time in recent history when the two largest representative bodies of the private sector in Guyana ‒ Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Private Sector Commission ‒ were so publicly unapologetic and vocal about their support for the budget presented by the Government of Guyana. The logical next question then is why, which is followed by what is in it for them?
On pressing national matters such as crime, corruption, government nepotism and open, free and fair media governance these groups cautiously express neutral concern, seemingly because it is as if they feel they must say something. Editor, I have a few questions for these groups:
1) Why were they not so vocal about the need for the government to consult with and engage the Parliament during budget preparation?
2) Why are they afraid or choose not to be vocal and engage in collective action to reduce corruption?
3) Since the private sector holds much leverage and essentially the balance of power in the development landscape of Guyana, why does it continue to allow the country to be raped?
The PSC and GCCI are losing credibility in the eyes of Guyanese by engaging in barefaced, selfish politricks to increase their profit margins and investment opportunities. They are becoming the private sector equivalent to the PPP/C government and are almost like the spokespersons for what is a corrupt and inept government. This is cowardice and irresponsibility under the guise of support for the budget. The writing is on the wall for Guyanese and the combined opposition with respect to the private sector’s interests and alignment. The famous proverb, “He who pays the piper calls the tune” is applicable to the PSC and GCCI. I encourage the combined opposition to establish a select group of representatives to engage the PSC and GCCI on issues pertinent to the development of Guyana. This opportunity should also be used to share the opposition’s development vision and plans for Guyana.
Yours faithfully,
Mike Archer
