Dear Editor,
The Constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana is clear on public participation (articles 13, 38A and 149C) “No person shall be hindered in the enjoyment of participating through co-operatives, trade unions, civic or socio-economic organisations of a national character, in the management and decision-making processes of the State.” It is sad to see the disadvantage taken on residents in the East Ruimveldt Community. A community that was deprived of infrastructural development by the PPP/C government from 1992-2015, but received interventions by the Coalition Government between 2015-2019. It is heartbreaking to watch how people have allowed themselves to be “brainwashed” with negativity, for small pittance!
As I have said before and will iterate that I am not against development, but not at the expense of ordinary Guyanese. The PPP/C believe that to get a certain type of people, just give them a box of food and a $5,000.00 or buy them out by giving them small contracts, when many of them do not have the tools or equipment to get the job done. The famous Chinese Proverb, “Give a Man a Fish, and You Feed Him for a Day. Teach a Man To Fish, and You Feed Him for a Lifetime.” We are seeing the reverse in many cases here in Guyana.
Many of the works being done in East and West, should be supervised under the watchful eyes of the Mayor and City Council, but due to the wickedness and vindictiveness of the PPP/C, rather than engaging the elected bodies at City Council, they have flouted all rules, law and procedures. Why? Is it a case of vote buying? Perhaps, the PPP/C is yet to learn from their experience at the not so long concluded LGE 2023 in Constituency 13. Aren’t they aware that the people in that area are smart and will not allow themselves to be sold cheaply for roads, recapping of their roads or concrete footpaths? Doing of these things are the responsibility of the City Council, with support from Central Government. It’s all about political dominance for the PPP/C!
Other than recapping of roads, etc., a healthy and friendly environment is necessary for life. There are clogged and blocked drains in Constituency 13, the parapets are unkept, clogged alleyways and high bushes in several sections of the community. That is where some of the monies could have better used. Persons complained that the awarding of contracts in this way is full with cutbacks and corruption. There are many sub- sub-contractors. This action is a clear reminder of what transpired with the COVID-19 cash grant. This is the nature of the PPP/C.
I now turn my attention to what is happening in Genip Lane, East Ruimveldt. Contract has been awarded to persons unknown to residents in the area. Residents expressed their disappointment of not being involved in decision making process. They reported of not seeing the design, nor cost of the project, but was surprised on Thursday, March 14, 2024, when equipment and workmen showed up and commenced excavating an area, used by youths and young children to play. Residents reached out to me and vented their disgust and only learnt the morning what will be constructed. However, they were told not to listen to me and that I am against development and the whole nine yards of PPP/C propaganda and lies. I will continue to engage and represent the people of Constituency 13. It is sad when politics raises its ugly head in everything, including a simple decision when it comes to recreational development for our children.
How can central government show up and decide to convert portion of a play area into a 12 feet width concrete road? Was this a decision of the residents? NO! It’s PPP/C way or no way. Some residents were told that the project will be done in phases. Hogwash! From a layman’s perspective this is a one off project, when completed, there will be no return of those who foist their imposition on the residents. I wait to be proven wrong! It is pellucid to state that the residents are not against development in their community, what they are against is the high handed approach by the PPP/C and their acolytes without them being part of the decision. The residents’ preference is for the existing area to be enhanced, to a concrete surface to accommodate the youths with their outdoor activities. I have provided the attached images for your readers to understand the layout and what I have shared above. It is sad!!!!! People’s Power! No dictator! Better must come!!!!!
Sincerely,
Annette Ferguson, MP