Guyana’s President, Irfaan Ali, is displaying a concerning pattern of behavior that echoes that of a monarch rather than a leader of a democratic nation. His reluctance to engage in meaningful negotiations with the teachers’ union and his tactics of delaying crucial discussions on issues such as salary increases, working conditions, and the welfare of educators not only fail the nation but also betray his duty to the people.
Recent events, such as the tragic deaths of 19 girls at the Mahdia Secondary School dorm, have underscored the need for swift action and accountability from the president. However, Ali seems more interested in deflecting attention away from the accusations leveled at a young girl and evading responsibility for the gross negligence that led to the horrific incident in Mahdia. His equivocation regarding the alleged sexual assault of an indigenous minor by Minister Nigel Dharamlall further erodes public trust in his administration.
In a feeble attempt to divert attention and secure loyalty from teachers, President Ali has resorted to symbolic gestures, akin to throwing corn, by making empty promises during a recent event. This demeaning action vividly illustrates his disregard for the dignity and well-being of public servants, particularly the significant number of Black women who form the backbone of the teaching profession. These dedicated individuals are already grappling with the escalating cost of living and meager wages. Treating them as mere pawns in a political game is an insult to their unwavering commitment and professionalism.
The issue of paltry wages among teachers and many public servants has long been a concern raised by union leaders in Guyana. While President Ali vaguely alluded to addressing these disparities, his lack of concrete action and refusal to specifically tackle salary increases for teachers is deeply disappointing. The president’s promise to “hit the ground soon” and engage with teachers directly appears to be a mere political maneuver aimed at placating the masses and diverting attention from his government’s complicity in the recent appalling rape allegations and tragic fire.
Furthermore, it is an outright injustice that many teachers and public servants earn less than security guards. Recent job postings have revealed that security guards receive a monthly salary of $123,000, surpassing the income of numerous teachers. This stark disparity not only undermines the value of education but also perpetuates the cycle of inequality and social injustice prevalent in the country.
President Ali’s vague statements regarding incentives for teachers’ professional development and his emphasis on investing in the education sector lack substance without concrete plans and actions to support them. While rewarding incremental educational advancement is commendable, it should not serve as a smokescreen to deflect attention from the urgent need for fair wages and improved working conditions for teachers—an issue that has persisted throughout his entire term in office.
The time for empty promises and symbolic gestures has passed. President Ali must demonstrate true leadership by engaging in genuine dialogue with the union, promptly addressing salary disparities, and ensuring the safety and well-being of students and teachers alike. The people of Guyana deserve a leader who prioritizes their welfare over political grandstanding and personal agendas. It is time for President Ali to fulfill his responsibilities and uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and fairness that are indispensable to a thriving democracy.
