Dear Editor
The incessant clamor for Shared Governance and/or Power Sharing by opposition forces seeking input and control over governmental functions is a disservice to Guyanese. This is especially so since such governing structures have proven to be ineffective and have had adverse effects on the country’s development and progress. Most Guyanese, old enough today, can probably recall the failed coalition government established by Burnham’s Peoples National Congress (PNC) and D’Aguiar’s United Force (UF) political parties in 1964.
Consequently, instead of Shared Governance/ Power Sharing, the PPP/C should focus emphasis on expanding its current system of Participatory Democracy at all levels, regional, district, village communities, and even churches, mandirs and mosques, with intent to solicit input and feedback that would result in policy decisions that benefit all Guyanese. Participatory Democracy has proven to be critical in building trust, generating firsthand learning, fostering working relationships between government and the people, and providing opportunities for primary data collection that inform policy decisions. President Ali’s outreach, consultation, and decision making have already exemplified, and validated the importance, and value of governance through a system of participatory democracy.
Hence, the PPP/C leadership should not become distracted from its commitment of developing the country, and improving the lives of all Guyanese, through adherence to the protocols and policies of participatory democracy. Undoubtedly, such a system of governance would take time to fully materialize and yield fruitful results. Could it be that because the successes of such a governance system are clearly evidenced that opposition forces clamor for power sharing? Think about it.
Sincerely,
Narayan Persaud, PhD
Professor Emeritus
