Georgetown, Guyana β In the wake of new rape allegations against a senior leader of the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP), the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) has issued a scathing critique of the government’s response. The GHRA’s statement highlights what it perceives as a troubling complacency within the party, illustrating the extent to which power has vanquished principle.
The GHRA’s criticism is directed at Party General Secretary and First Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, who concluded that the accused, Nigel Dharamlall, “has nothing to step down from… the matter is an allegation.” Jagdeo emphasized that the case would be handled in the same manner as previous allegations against Dharamlall, allowing “the law to take its course.”
This stance, according to the GHRA, reveals a disturbing pattern. The previous allegations against Dharamlall, involving a young Amerindian girl, prompted widespread public criticism of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Police Force, and the ruling party. Despite this backlash, the PPP’s leadership appears unperturbed, seemingly confident that they can navigate these allegations with minimal repercussions.
The GHRA points out that over the years, Guyanese have witnessed a variety of wrongdoings by leaders and their associates, who seem to enjoy political immunity. Efforts to address this situation have been piecemeal and disjointed, with laws like the Sexual Offences Act not being seriously embraced by politicians. This act, intended to protect women and young people, has not been effectively enforced, leading to a culture of impunity.
The GHRA also highlights the need for more effective mobilization of public indignation. While social media outcries and periodic public outbursts against misogyny and misconduct are notable, they are insufficient to bring about real change. The association calls for civic bodiesβincluding business, religious, trade, sports, NGOs, and other organizationsβto institute “fit and proper” leadership rules within their sectors. This would help raise national standards and foster a culture of integrity and accountability.
Such measures, the GHRA argues, are particularly important for politicians and individuals on National Commissions responsible for public funds. Implementing rigorous standards would prevent corrupt or untrustworthy persons from attaining positions of authority, thereby promoting greater trust in public institutions.
The GHRA’s statement is a call for Guyana to demand better from its leaders. By holding those in power accountable and insisting on principled governance, Guyanese can work towards a future where justice and integrity are not just ideals, but realities.
