Political slogans and logos have no place in our passport. But it has been done. The “One Guyana” slogan is in the newest passports and is another example of how the long rope of misuse of power continues to extend in Guyana.
We all know that the “One Guyana” slogan has been endorsed by the current administration. It is a good concept for what better Guyana than one that is unified. One where regardless of racial identity, religion or political affiliation the people can truly stand as one. However, whether “One Guyana” was conceived as a gimmick or a sincere attempt of unifying the nation, it is not our national motto and should not replace it in a document such as our passport. What next? Will the slogan be plastered on new National Identification Cards and new birth certificates? Will it be placed on the coat of arms and on the flag? Where does it stop?
Under the umbrella of “One Guyana” we are witnessing the growing divide between the resource enabled and the resource disadvantaged. A small group throw balls to celebrate their privilege with the abundance of the meat of the land while the underprivileged fight for the scraps and bones. Have we seen genuine attempts by the creators of “One Guyana” to create oneness where all are respected and equal? I say no. Instead, what we have seen are the bold attempts by those who wish to keep the Guyanese people in a chokehold seeking to force their will on us. This while allegations of corruption increase and opposing voices are seen as nuisances that need to be silenced.
To use “One Guyana” in our passports is another example of the disrespect and arrogance that has become the accepted norm in Guyana from those who believe their power is infinite. How can such violations of our identity be accepted without fight or noise? The passivity of the people is evident. How do we sit comfortably and watch the erasure of our pride and freedom?
There are those in our nation who are constantly seeking to remain relevant and with power in their hands. We can call them egomaniacs or autocrats, for the society is not better because of their desires. They do not care if their dominance is built on lies, betrayal or the blood and sweat of the people. The satisfaction they seek can never be fulfilled because their intentions for the Guyanese people are not selfless, but selfish. They are desperately seeking to leave an indelible mark even though it may be a dirty stain of division and corruption that has prolonged the sufferings of many people. The words of one’s mouth or slogans are not as powerful as the actions that negatively affect the people.
In an election year what are we to think about a political slogan appearing in the new passports? Is it an attempt to influence or intimidate the electorate? How does having a political slogan in an official document like our passport foster equality and justice? There was no referendum to change our motto to “One Guyana”. Yet it continues to be the preferred slogan funded by the people of Guyana against their will. Those who claim to have the best interests of the Guyanese people at heart are only concerned with being unopposed and praised. If their actions continue unopposed, it will cripple the people for decades to come.
Our passport is not a political party document. No political party should seek to erase our Guyanese identity. Guyana is not a one-party state even though we can deduce that there are attempts to make it one.
However, can we blame those who choose their interests over the Guyanese people for their boldness? We have allowed it. “One Guyana” is also imprinted on the $2000 bill, and we have quietly accepted that or perhaps most of us have not noticed. National events like Mashramani have also been branded with “One Guyana.” What is nonpartisan in Guyana?
We wait for strong opposition to stand for the people – a longing that perhaps will remain unsatisfied. There have been so many crimes against the Guyanese people that have gone unchecked and unpunished. We must question who really stands for the people. We see the political players, those in power and those seeking power to charm and gain the confidence of the people. But how many times will we the people allow ourselves to be betrayed? How many times will we walk the same dark path that has led us to where a few are trying to force their will on the people and hold us hostage.
I suppose that the implications of putting a political slogan in our passport were not considered or perhaps the creators do not care. We use our passports to travel and for identification. How does this affect us in the eyes of the international community when a document that serves as a sovereign representation is branded with a political slogan? This exposes us as an unstable nation where political parties’ ideologies take precedence over respecting the rights and freedom of the people. It promotes the alienation of some sections of the society. Those who align themselves with the political slogan will be emboldened by this and feel entitled to follow in the steps of the egomaniacs. A political slogan in a passport is propaganda. This is a country with diverse political views. We know it is not about inclusivity. Will the people of this country raise their voices? Will we stand by our motto or acquiesce?
Under the previous administration, government buildings were painted in one of the ruling parties colours. That was also inappropriate and reflected how power corrupts, and the egos of men are often put before country and the people. Whether it is painting a government building in your party colour or putting your political slogan in an official document like the passport, both do not serve the Guyanese people, and we are not better because of it.
