Dear Editor,
I recently read of a crass incident at the Republic Anniversary celebration held at the Regional Democratic Office of Demerara- Mahaica (Region 4). This region, which comprises citizens from all walks of life, social standing, and political association, are common in their identity as Guyanese. As reported, the Regional Executive Officer, an official appointed by the Government to serve in the interest of the people without prejudice at the Local Government institution apparently took umbrage to a legislator, a representative of the people in the National Assembly speaking at a national observance ceremony. President Ali speaks about “One Guyana” erecting signs around the country as some sort of parallel reality while his minions promote division and discord within our society.
The Municipality is not without its experience from non-consultation on projects within the precincts of the city to blatant disregard for the Municipal laws, but “One Guyana” is trumpeted from one section of the society, those who have not felt the brute force of the state. The unequal treatment of squatters and the distinction of some as illegal settlers, reeks of inequality and favour to one group over another. The award of multimillion dollar contracts to dubious contractors in addition to the lack of representation at major forums where the Government seems hard pressed to demonstrate that our population is made up of more than one ethnic group. The recent suspension from the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) on the heels of surmounting questions by the Opposition on the use of resources garnered from the recent oil and gas sector has now exposed to the world emerging trends and red flags.
To achieve oneness requires fairness. It cannot be achieved with confrontation and disregarding those on the political opposite. It is my earnest desire that “One Guyana” becomes more that just “One (Peoples Progressive Party Only) Guyana”. Was the legislator prevented from speaking because she was a woman, was she prevented from speaking because she was a member of the Opposition and in this new construct must be silenced? Was she prevented from speaking because she was Afro-Guyanese? I pray for Guyana.
Sincerely,
Pandit Ubraj Narine
Mayor of Georgetown