Dr. Terrence Campbell is a man with a mission. He has emerged as a prominent figure in Guyanese politics, calling for a new form of politics that is accountable, responsive, and led by leaders who are truly answerable to the people. At a time when the current political leadership often seems unaccountable and dishonest, Campbell’s call is a refreshing change.
As the Opposition representative on the Investment Committee of the Natural Resource Fund, Campbell is waging a one-man battle to ensure transparency and accountability in managing the nation’s oil and gas revenues, which had exceeded US$5 billion by December 2024. He is committed to ensuring the revenues are managed prudently, in compliance with the law.
Born in Mahdia, (Region Eight), and raised in Queenstown, Essequibo Coast (Region Two), Dr. Campbell pursued his secondary and higher education in Georgetown (Region Four), then abroad. He holds a Doctorate of Business Administration from Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland, and has enjoyed success in various business ventures, including franchises for Church’s Chicken, FedEx, and others.
National motto, race relations, corruption
In an interview with Village Voice News, he emphasised the importance of Guyanese be given the opportunity to truly living up to the national motto, “One People, One Nation, One Destiny,” distinguishing it from the “one Guyana” slogan used by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP). Campbell advocates for consistency in governance and policies that ensure unity across the nation.
Campbell has also expressed his dissatisfaction with the state of race relations in Guyana. He argues that while racial conflict often flares up during election periods, the underlying issue is constant and is rooted in fears over the distribution of wealth and access to opportunities. He believes improving race relations requires creating systems that eliminate fear and offer everyone a fair chance to access resources. Campbell stresses that wherever inequality or inequity exists, it must be addressed with the right policies.
On economic issues, Dr. Campbell describes himself as a “benevolent capitalist.” He believes Guyana’s development hinges on addressing key issues such as education, healthcare, and the economy. He argues that leadership is needed not only to combat corruption but also to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion—policies that he believes can reduce racial tensions in society.
Campbell maintains that corruption cannot be eradicated overnight, but with strong leadership, it can be curbed. He believes that leadership opposed to corruption can significantly reduce its occurrence, with practical measures like setting up hotlines for reporting allegations and holding violators accountable. If Guyana’s leaders adopt a zero-tolerance approach to corruption, he believes everyone will follow suit.
Dr. Campbell has also voiced concerns about Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo’s role in the current state of corruption. He contends that the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan, former leader of the PPP, would be dismayed by the level of corruption within the party today and suggested that Jagan’s death was hastened by the corrupt ministers around him.
Governance and infrastructure development
Touching on the issue of inclusionary democracy, which according to the Guyana constitution is the political objective of the state, Campbell believes that the constitutional mechanism for inclusionary democracy doesn’t work. He points to the regional system as an example, where government-appointed Regional Executive Officers often obstruct the work of opposition-led regions. He believes regions should be empowered with the necessary funds to carry out their work without interference, and if they fail, the people will hold them accountable through elections.
He advocates for a strong government that prioritises the welfare of the people, provides equal opportunities for all, and remains accountable to the public. For Campbell, this type of governance is crucial for Guyana’s future.
While Dr. Campbell acknowledges the importance of infrastructure development, he believes it should not outpace human development. He is concerned that current infrastructure projects are not taking a long-term, holistic approach. He suggests that Guyana should focus on building sustainable infrastructure that will last for generations, while also considering how to empower its citizens within the oil economy and prepare for the post-oil era.
A Personal Commitment to Change
When asked about the growing call for a consensus presidential candidate in the opposition, and the role he could likely play, Dr. Campbell told Village Voice News that he is prepared to serve in any capacity. He emphasised that this is not a time for division; the focus of all Guyanese should be on removing the PPP, which he views as an existential threat to society, the people, and the nation.
Campbell stressed the importance of giving future generations the opportunity to thrive and finds the PPP lacking on several fronts. He has also expressed disgust with the PPP government for weaponising the state to target those they perceive as opponents.
When asked why he is part of this new movement for change, Dr. Campbell responded that he feels compelled to stand up and fight. He believes Guyana has been good to him and wants to ensure the opportunities he had growing up are available to others. He also believes he has been blessed and protected by the God he serves and with that, he feels capable of taking on the challenges ahead. He told this publication that he is in it for the long haul.
