By Mark DaCosta-In a series of impactful meetings watched closely by local analysts, the Alliance For Change (AFC) is reporting that the party has made significant strides in engaging the Guyanese diaspora across the United States. Led by Party Leader Nigel Hughes, the delegation included prominent figures such as Chairman David Patterson M.P., and other executive members, who connected with the diaspora to address pressing issues facing our nation.
During their visit, the AFC held gatherings in Queens, New York, which attracted many members of the diaspora eager to voice their concerns. Among the attendees were youth Member of Parliament Devin Sears and AFC founding member Dr. Rohan Somar, along with Dr. Vincent Adams, the party’s advisor on oil, gas, and environmental matters, and Ewart Marshall, chair of the AFC’s USA Chapter.
The overwhelming sentiment from participants was one of frustration over the pervasive corruption and mismanagement plaguing our nation. Many expressed their outrage at the government’s blatant disregard for the rule of law, a situation they feel is only worsening under the current administration. Attendees raised questions about how they could contribute to efforts advocating for constitutional and electoral reforms, demonstrating a strong desire for a collaborative approach leading up to the next elections.
In a packed hall in Queens, concerns about the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP) were echoed as participants condemned the practice of distributing cash grants selectively to loyal supporters. This strategy, perceived as both corrupt and discriminatory, has heightened calls for change. The diaspora expressed a keen interest in collaborating with the locally based AFC to combat corruption and promote equitable governance.
Meetings in New York City further illuminated critical issues such as proposed amendments to the Cybercrime law, which many believe threaten freedom of expression. The high cost of living was a prominent topic, with participants sharing stories of daily struggles back home.
AFC Leader Nigel Hughes addressed these concerns head-on, outlining the party’s commitment to fostering independent institutions and adhering to the rule of law. He highlighted the urgent need to revamp the educational system and to harness the skills and knowledge of our diaspora for national development.
David Patterson’s revelation that Guyana generates a staggering US$8 Million daily from oil revenues astonished many attendees, who questioned why poverty remains so prevalent in Guyana. This disconnect raised eyebrows, particularly regarding the heavy reliance on remittances from the diaspora, a lifeline for many families back home. Moreover, the disheartening situation in Region 9, where indigenous students are subjected to inadequate sanitation facilities, sparked outrage among the audience.
In Washington, the AFC delegation met with officials from the US State Department, further reinforcing their commitment to transparency and accountability in government spending. Participants expressed their desire to apply pressure on the current administration to ensure a fair allocation of public funds, especially in light of concerning contracts awarded to PPP aligned firms lacking experience. The lost opportunities for equitable development were lamented, with many in the diaspora anxious for change as the 2025 elections approach.
The AFC was buoyed by the support expressed by the Washington diaspora, who conveyed their frustration with the current government and optimism for an AFC-led future. Alongside public engagements, the party also conducted private meetings with influential members of the Guyanese community in the US, seeking to bolster their network and strategic alliances.
As the AFC continues to galvanise support among the diaspora, the party has declared that it remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for a better future for our nation, challenging the status quo and fighting against corruption in all its forms. The road ahead may be challenging, but the resilience and commitment of the Guyanese diaspora signal a collective determination to create a brighter future for all, days the AFC.
