Recently, the government of Guyana withdrew another $20.8 Billion more from the oil fund. So far, the PPP/C government has withdrawn $156 Billion. This, the government has done in the face of a real and active threat to Guyana’s territorial integrity; a matter that is causing much anxiety among its citizens. Yet, we, Guyanese, whose ancestors’ blood continue to nourish the soil of this motherland, are not sure of what percentage of this huge sum, $156 Billion, the government has invested in protecting Guyana’s territorial right. I believe that it is reasonable to think that, if Guyana is receiving profits from its natural resources, as it is receiving, then its government should use a portion of those revenues to protect its territorial right and Sovereignty, from any aggressor. This does not appears to be the case. However, in my judgement, there are two very crucial areas that are particularly concerned with this governmental responsibility:
National Defence, and Communication (Internal and External). Let us now look at internal communication. To understand the enormous importance of this process to the nation let us consider a few of the benefits of this process.
At the most fundamental level internal communication can foster national unity and solidarity. This is crucial because territorial disputes can be highly divisive and emotionally charged, potentially leading to internal conflicts and unrest. However, effective internal communication can help create a sense of unity and community among our citizens by conveying shared understanding of the issue and the government’s stance.
Another important benefit of effective internal communication is that it has the potential to shape and influence public opinion. Undoubtedly, public opinion is a significant factor in territorial disputes. The incumbent must effectively communicate its position and objectives to citizens to gain support. Through clear and transparent communication, the government can influence public perception and reduce misinformation or propaganda that can exacerbate tensions.
An equally important function of internal communication is its insulating properties against disinformation. In this age of internet and an assortment of social media platforms disinformation and propaganda can spread easily and exacerbate tensions. National internal communication strategies can address and counter disinformation, promoting accurate information and responsible journalism.
It also has implications for international relations. In fact, the way, the approach of the government to internal communication can have consequential implications on its international relations. In the context of the extant territorial dispute, the government must strike a good balance between domestic interests and maintaining constructive foreign relations. Effective internal communication can help manage international perceptions and expectations, reducing the likelihood of isolation or loss of support from friends.
Again, misinformation or mismanagement of internal communication can inadvertently escalate this situation. Therefore, clarity, consistency and proper messaging can help prevent unintended situations.
At an extraordinary sitting of the National Assembly, held weeks ago, the opposition, inter alia, advanced a case for an aggressive and robust public relations and public education campaign to keep our citizens informed and to mobilise the much- needed support of our friends in, CARICOM, Latin America and elsewhere in the international community.
Whilst I agree with the push for greater awareness in the international community through international relations, I am of the view that the nation, and the government should place greater store, and focus, on national internal communications, at this point in time in the history of this dispute because it is very different from previous stages of this illegal territorial claim by Venezuela. It has to be treated with a greater sense of collectiveness, and sensitivity.
Further, I would argue that effective internal communication plays a pivotal role in addressing and managing this very worrying situation as it has profound implications for national unity, public opinion, government policies and international relations.
That, notwithstanding, the government is demonstrating a frightening and debilitating malaise in this regard. It is shocking.
Every day, Guyanese are bombarded with announcements of awards (some highly questionable) of multi- billion dollar- contracts for construction of roads and other infrastructural works. I ask, at what stage would the government announce an investment and invest in a national internal communication strategy that help citizens especially our young people, to understand the historical background to this illegal claim by Venezuela and the “nuts” and “bolts” of our arguments about our firm stance as nation?
We rail at others for disseminating false information about our national heritage, and rightly so. But what is the government doing to guide citizens, especially our young people, along the path of understanding and truth about this massively important and critical issue?
While it is true that almost all of what is being said in relation to Essequibo, by Venezuela is chaff (misinformation and falsehood) the sheer persistence and intensity of that country’s effort to instill this falsehood in the minds of its citizens, perpetually, and generationally, should, if nothing else, move the incumbent PPP/C regime to immediate action. Still, after weeks of meetings and discussions on this external threat, the nation has heard absolutely nothing about a clear and solid national internal communication strategy to raise awareness, educate, empower and develop a sense of community among our citizens. Is the PPP/C government serious?
Long live Guyana
