By Mark DaCosta-In a compelling column published in Village Voice News on October 27, 2024, Lincoln Lewis, General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), has once again underscored the urgent need for transformative governance in the context of Guyana’s burgeoning oil economy. His reflections build on an earlier piece from August 5, 2022, where he initially raised alarms about the detrimental fixation on political gestures, such as the infamous handshake incident between Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton and President Irfaan Ali.
Lewis argues that over two years later, the political and social landscape in Guyana has deteriorated significantly. He noted that ethnic tensions, division, and a lack of effective governance have reached alarming levels, asserting that the current administration’s approach continues to marginalise vast segments of the population. “We all should be concerned that in oil-rich Guyana at least half the society is poor,” he stated, highlighting the stark disparity between the nation’s oil wealth and the daily hardships faced by many citizens striving for basic necessities.
The core of Lewis’s argument lies in the observation that the political elite have become engrossed in trivial matters, such as handshakes, while ignoring more pressing issues like rampant corruption and the misuse of public funds. He expressed concern over the silence from influential members of society regarding violations of individual rights and governmental misconduct, which, he argues, emboldens these injustices. This silence, he posits, undermines the principles of inclusionary democracy mandated by Article 13 of the Constitution of Guyana.
A political analyst and commentator from Georgetown, who asked to remain unnamed for purposes of this article, fully supports Lewis’s position, emphasising that the failure of the government to engage all stakeholders represents a serious deviation from democratic norms. “The political elite are living in a bubble, while ordinary citizens face dire economic realities,” the analyst stated, adding that the opposition must take on a more proactive role in demanding accountability. The observer further noted that while the government claims to pursue its “one Guyana” agenda, it fails to address the systemic issues that plague many communities.
According to Lewis, the absence of an effective opposition hampers the ability to challenge the government’s self-serving policies. He called for a united front from opposition parties, civil society, and everyday citizens to push back against what he describes as a “rapacious and lawless regime.” He believes that mechanisms such as motions, legislation, and even civil disobedience are necessary to confront the injustices perpeturated by the current administration. “If we want social and political peace, it must be underpinned by social, economic and political justice,” he reiterated, aligning his views with those of the political analyst.
In his August 2022 article, Lewis articulated a vital message: while courtesy and politeness are important, they should never take precedence over the pressing matters of governance and human rights. He highlighted the historical context of Guyana, where many citizens come from backgrounds marked by discrimination and oppression. “In a nation that subscribes to universally acceptable principles, no citizen should be denied basic rights or be in want,” he wrote, reflecting on the ongoing struggles faced by many.
The political analyst agreed, noting the pervasive indifference displayed by some members of the ruling class towards the suffering of ordinary citizens. This attitude exacerbates existing social inequalities, contributing to a growing divide between the wealthy elite and the impoverished majority. “Unless there is a collective outcry against corruption and inequality, the fabric of our democracy will continue to fray,” the analyst cautioned.
Lewis’s discourse also sheds light on the systemic injustices that plague the working class and other vulnerable groups in society. He stated, “The working class is being denied social, economic and political justice as the margin between the rich and poor grows wider.” This sentiment resonates strongly with the political analyst, who called for immediate action to address the grievances of those struggling to survive in a challenging economic climate.
Further complicating the situation are the government’s questionable practices regarding public resources and its responses to dissent. Lewis argues for a culture of accountability, where citizens demand transparency from their leaders. The political analyst reiterated that the populace must reclaim their agency, insisting on their rights to participate meaningfully in governance.
Moreover, Lewis has repeatedly raised concerns about the growing trend of political figures commandeering sacred spaces, such as religious institutions, to further their agendas, diluting the separation of church and state. This exploitation of sacred spaces for political gain has sparked outrage among citizens who expect a more respectful approach to governance.
The narratives articulated by Lewis in both his recent and earlier articles serve as a clarion call for Guyanese society to prioritise justice and inclusivity in governance. The responsibility does not rest solely on the shoulders of political leaders; citizens must actively engage in demanding a system that is accountable, equitable, and responsive to their needs. As Guyana grapples with the complexities of its newfound oil wealth, the fight for true democracy and governance that reflects the will of the people remains paramount. The path forward necessitates a collective effort to ensure that all citizens can partake in the nation’s bounty, free from the shackles of corruption and exclusion.
