By Mark DaCosta- This series of articles is based on the analyses of experts and observers with whom this publication consults.
In previous articles on the subject at caption, this publication has argued that Guyana is moving towards a dictatorial mode of governance. This transition from liberal democracy towards tyrannical dictatorship is being driven by the policies, programmes, and actions of the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP) regime. The transition is deliberate, and total dictatorship is the objective of the PPP.
In this series, it will be argued that, that move – away from democratic values, towards dictatorial rule – continues unabated. However, there is a difference.
It is now July 2023. This series of articles will show that – unlike on previous occasions – a political tipping point has been reached – the seesaw has reached a centre balancing point, and has tipped over in favour of dictatorial governance.
The implications are twofold:
-
Guyana is now more of a dictatorship than a democratic country.
-
It is no longer possible to spontaneously revert to a system of democratic governance without the intervention of an external force. In other words, Guyana cannot return to democratic governance without the exertion of force.
Such an external force may originate either outside or inside the borders of Guyana. The term “external” refers to the fact that it is outside the control and confines of the ruling regime.
For purposes of this series, “ruling regime” refers to the tiny circle of decision makers who rule Guyana. It does not refer to the whole PPP, nor even the whole government – only the tiny cabal of dictators at the centre of political power.
Yes, it is to be admitted and acknowledged that the analyses contained in this series are likely to be of great concern – even frightening. However, it may be said at the outset that the situation is not hopeless; interventions are possible that can change the course of events for the better.
This introduction to this series of articles will be closed with two definitions taken from Wikipedia.
DEMOCRACY.
“Democracy is a form of government in which the people have the authority to deliberate and decide legislation (“direct democracy“) or to choose governing officials to do so (“representative democracy“). Who is considered part of “the people” and how authority is shared among or delegated by the people has changed over time and at different rates in different countries. Features of democracy often include freedom of assembly, association, property rights, freedom of religion and speech, citizenship, consent of the governed, voting rights, freedom from unwarranted governmental deprivation of the right to life and liberty, and minority rights.”
DICTATORSHIP.
“Dictatorship is an autocratic form of government which is characterized by a leader, or a group of leaders, who hold governmental powers with few to no limitations. Politics in a dictatorship are controlled by a dictator, and they are facilitated through an inner circle of elites that includes advisers, generals, and other high-ranking officials. The dictator maintains control by influencing and appeasing the inner circle and repressing any opposition, which may include rival political parties, armed resistance, or disloyal members of the dictator’s inner circle.”
Part 2 of this series will continue this discussion of Guyana’s future.
