Former Mayor of Georgetown, Patricia Chase-Green, has caused a stir in the political arena by switching political parties and supporting the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in the upcoming Local Government Elections in the municipality of Georgetown. Her name was submitted on the PPP’s list of candidates by the party’s General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo.
Chase-Green’s decision to join the PPP is surprising, given her history of being a strong critic of the party. She first entered the City Council in 1994 as part of the Hamilton Green-led list, A Good and Green Guyana (AGGG). She later switched to the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and was elected Mayor on several occasions after A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) won a majority at the 2016 polls. However, after the 2018 Local Government elections, she was replaced by the incumbent Ubraj Narine.
Chase-Green’s joining with the PPP raises questions about her motivations, loyalties and whether PNC supporter to whom she will approach for votes for the PPP could ever trust that she will be able to work on their behalf. It is unusual for a politician to switch sides so dramatically, especially given her previous criticism of the party. Many are left wondering what her true intentions are and whether her move is based on principle or personal gain.
Chase-Green’s role in the sealing of the controversial parking meters deal during her tenure as Mayor also raises concerns. The deal, which was signed in 2016, has been the subject of much controversy and is now the subject of a major lawsuit against the government. Her association with this deal may be a cause for concern for voters and could affect her chances of being elected.
Chase-Green’s decision to contest in Constituency 14, South Ruimveldt/Ruimveldt Industrial Estate, a traditional opposition stronghold, will be a key test for the PPP. Chase-Green may be surprised when she finds out that her previous popularity in the area may not give her new party an advantage in a constituency where they have historically struggled to gain support. Chase-Green will do well to remember that people in constituency 14 remember the PPP’s role in extrajudicial killings, the murders of Crum-Ewing and Waddell, the Mocha atrocities and the horrendous underdevelopment of their area due to lack of funds for maintenance of drainage, irrigation and roads.
