Dear Editor,
Guyana faced three days of demanding quizzing on national issues and concerns at the UN Human Rights Committee. It seemed to be doom and gloom for the government and Guyana. The Minister being questioned aggressively had her plate full. From the claim of being less than truthful about the former head of EPA and the 2016 PSA; failure to substantively appoint the two top judicial officers; harassment of journalists; perceived corruption and particularly against a very senior functionary; the appointment of the current EPA Head, among several other damning matters raised at the forum. The one bright spot at the end of the three days was being commended on measures promoting gender equality.
It seems, of recent, each time Guyana goes before an international forum on governance and accountability, the bone of corruption raises its ugly head. This has left an indelible stain on Guyana’s standing on the international stage. The counter narrative has done little to dispel and correct this image. We say we uphold and practice the tenets of good governance and accountability but somehow this is not the perception at these fora. Why is this? The higher echelon of the administration need to pay keen attention to the subject matters raised and discussed at the forum and take all necessary steps to address them. Guyana’s image and standing are at stake.
Sincerely,
Shamshun Mohamed