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Dear Editor,
Discrimination and bias in Guyana, by the East Indian-led PPP government, has a negative impact not only on African people, but on East Indians as well. The abuse of power by government officials and cronies in ministries and local governments is causing harm to Indian-owned businesses, with some being forced to close due to personal disputes with local government officials, but they suffer in silence. Additionally, East Indian communities are suffering from shoddy road work due to corruption in the procurement process and many of their children receive a substandard education in schools. One only has to visit these communities to witness the dropout rates and undereducation of thousands of young adults. These issues not only affect the standard of living in these communities, but also the future opportunities available to the residents and their children. Those who speak out about these issues or have family members who do so are often denied opportunities or marginalized.
It is not just the East Indian community that is suffering from this discrimination and bias, many East Indians on social media complain of advantages being given to Muslim businessmen, however, the response is that Hindu businessmen continue to dominate government contracts and business opportunities. East Indians are also aware that foreigners and private sector friends are getting access to lands while they are not. This is unacceptable, as it undermines the society’s fair chance and opportunities for all citizens to thrive.
The chickens of a racist, discriminatory society always come home to roost. For Guyana to improve, all citizens must hold all governments accountable for their actions. This includes East Indian citizens holding East Indian-led governments accountable for discrimination and bias against African people and East Indians alike. Only by holding all governments accountable and promoting equality for all, can Guyana truly thrive. The government of Guyana should not be allowed to use ethnic allegiance as an excuse for abuse and substandard living conditions. It is time for all citizens to rise up and demand accountability and equality for all, so that no one group is left behind.
Shane Headley
