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By Mark DaCosta- Ms. Laura George, the recently appointed Technical Advisor on Indigenous Affairs to the Alliance For Change (AFC), addressed the need for greater inclusion of Indigenous Peoples in the national development agenda, particularly in light of the economic boom driven by the oil and gas sector. In a party’s release George highlighted the importance of ensuring that Indigenous communities are not left behind as the country rapidly develops.
The AFC is advocating for the government to respect and protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples, particularly their right to Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC). George stressed that Indigenous Peoples must be fully engaged in the planning and implementation of national development projects, especially in areas such as climate change mitigation, hinterland infrastructure, and the extractive industries.
“Our future is bright if we plan, manage, and execute responsibly with the citizens at the centre of focus for development,” George said, echoing the words of AFC Leader C.A. Nigel Hughes.
The party’s strategy includes calling for legislative measures that fully protect Indigenous rights, as well as ensuring that Indigenous communities have a voice in the decision-making processes that affect their lands and livelihoods.
Were these strategies to be adopted and implemented it not only deepen and strengthen the writes of all Guyanese but also the rights of the equal and equitable
