Dear Editor,
In light of the recent revelations from an independent award-winning journalist of VICE News, in which damning allegations are levelled at a former President of this country and now serving second Vice-President, Mr Bharrat Jadgeo, there is need now more than ever for the President of Guyana to swear in the members of the Public Procurement Commission. This will go a far way in minimizing corruption.
The President has a glorious opportunity to manifest his commitment to transparency, accountability and the Rule of Law by immediately establishing a reputable group of investigators to investigate the allegations raised in the VICE News report. To this end, assistance could be requested from the international community. This will go a far way in portraying Guyana as a country that is serious about its wealth benefitting our people and not squandered by greedy government leaders and corrupt businessmen.
Our country has already dropped two slots on the Transparency International corruption perceptions index and it appears that the Dutch disease has already begun to plague us as a country.
I believe everyone should have the right to a hearing as part of the right to natural justice and that includes the Vice President. However, I strongly believe he should welcome the call for an independent investigation to clear his name.
As any honourable man who has been accused in such a manner and holds such a position, the Vice President should resign from government until the conclusion of this must needed probe.
Yours faithfully,
Hon. Jermaine Figueira MP
Public Accounts Committee Chairman
