Georgetown, Guyana – November 1, 2024: In a direct and pointed press statement, Ganesh Mahipaul, Shadow Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, has accused Ministers Sonia Parag and Anand Persaud of “lying to the President” regarding the true status of delayed government projects. Mahipaul’s statement challenges President Irfaan Ali’s recent claim, made during a 5:30 a.m. meeting at State House, that only one project under the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development was delayed by four months or more.
Mahipaul argues this claim is inaccurate, highlighting numerous long-delayed projects and calling for transparency and accountability within the ministry. He describes the delays as systemic and problematic, raising serious concerns about Minister Parag’s oversight.
Key Projects Highlighted in the Statement
1. Mon Repos and Skeldon Markets – Budgeted since 2020, these projects remain incomplete with no clear explanation for the prolonged delays.
2. Parika and Charity Markets – Funded in the 2021 budget, these projects are also incomplete, stretching three years beyond the initial timeline.
3. Landfill Upgrades (2022) – Projects aimed at landfill improvements, including the Haags Bosch Sanitary Landfill, are still unfinished, raising environmental concerns.
4. Port Mourant Secondary School – Another critical project under the ministry that remains unfulfilled, impacting local residents and students.
Mahipaul contends these examples represent a fraction of the ministry’s delayed initiatives, suggesting inefficiency and a lack of accountability. He claims that Parag and Persaud provided false information to President Ali, minimizing the extent of delays.
Mahipaul recalls President Ali’s promise to take action if delays were more widespread than initially indicated. Now, with “clear evidence” of multiple overdue projects, Mahipaul is calling on the President to hold his ministers accountable. The people of Guyana deserve a government that not only makes promises but also fulfills them,” Mahipaul said. “It is time for President Ali to demonstrate his commitment to transparency and efficiency by addressing these project failures and ensuring accountability.”
