In a series of confidential cables released by WikiLeaks, insights into the views of the US Embassy regarding Bharrat Jagdeo, the former President of Guyana, shed light on his leadership style and the government’s approach to various issues. The cables provide a glimpse into Jagdeo’s personal involvement in government affairs, his demeanor towards the donor community, and the government’s handling of sensitive matters such as national security and allegations of narco-trafficking.
President Jagdeo, despite professing to delegate tasks to his Ministers, was revealed to be intricately involved in the minutiae of governance. The US Embassy document noted that Jagdeo maintained a jovial and upbeat attitude towards the donor community, often attending even minor events. However, this outward charm stood in stark contrast to what the Embassy perceived as a tightening grip on power and a misuse of the rule of law by the government.
The cables also highlighted instances where the Guyanese government displayed reluctance or resistance to collaboration with international partners. For instance, a planned Canadian program for media was bluntly rejected by the government, indicating a lack of willingness to engage constructively. Similarly, a planned joint symposium on national security strategy between the United States and the Government of Guyana (GoG) failed to materialize, with the Chief of Staff of the President stalling its planning until it became a moot point.
One of the most concerning revelations in the cables pertained to the government’s handling of allegations linking it to confessed narco-trafficker Roger Khan and his “death squad.” Despite mounting evidence and international scrutiny, the government refused to initiate its own investigation into the matter. Instead, it insisted on waiting for evidence from the United States, despite the majority of relevant sources being within Guyana.
The US Embassy’s observations, as revealed in the WikiLeaks cables, paint a damning picture of Bharrat Jagdeo’s leadership and the government’s approach to governance. While Jagdeo projected an amicable demeanor publicly, behind the scenes, his administration faced accusations of tightening control and avoiding accountability. The reluctance to engage with international partners on critical issues further underscored concerns about transparency and commitment to addressing challenges facing Guyana.
The wikileaks cables remind us that Bharrat Jagdeo has not changed and continues to influence the government of Guyana most destructively. Foreign investors must understand the characters with whom they are signing up to do business. Any government that can open and expedite doors for investors can also close them just as fast if they run afoul of the government. To do business in Guyana is to engage with a history of corruption and criminality. Investor beware!
Source: Search WikiLeaks
