Mark Benschop, host of the popular ‘Straight Up with Mark Benschop’ programme, has sharply criticised the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) regime, accusing it of widespread corruption across multiple sectors. In a conversation with Village Voice News, Benschop called for the “installed government to be held accountable,” pointing to corruption in land distribution, housing, the police force, the Office of the President, and the awarding of contracts, among others.
“The corruption is everywhere – in every department, every sector, and every day,” Benschop stated. “It’s time for the government to answer for these blatant acts of dishonesty.”
Benschop highlighted the growing scandal involving the Government of Guyana’s GY$4 Billion Goal Scholarship programme, which he described as a “scam.”
According to the social activist, students are being misled into thinking they are attending legitimate universities when, in reality, they are enrolled in obscure “bottom house” institutions in India and elsewhere. “This is a disgrace. Billions of taxpayer dollars are being funneled into the pockets of corrupt officials who have created fake universities in India and other countries,” he added.
Benschop also expressed frustration with the opposition’s response to these ongoing issues. He believes it’s time for the opposition to step up and take a more active role in governance. “It’s no longer acceptable for the Opposition to remain silent while the people cry out for justice, fairness and good governance; things they are not getting from the PPP regime,” Benschop said.
He pointed to the struggles of ordinary Guyanese, from rice farmers and bauxite workers to public servants and sugar workers, all of whom he claims are suffering under the current administration.
“The country is hurting, and it’s time for change. If Guyanese want real change, the Opposition—whether it’s the People’s National Congress (PNC), Alliance for Change (AFC), or Working People’s Alliance (WPA)—needs to stop with the empty talk and press conferences,” Benschop asserted.
“Many of them aren’t even speaking up; they hold press conferences once a week where nothing substantial is said, yet they expect that to shake the PPP’s hold on power.”
The owner of 107.1 FM radio also pointed to serious allegations of corruption within the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), specifically referencing reports of multiple registrations and questionable voter rolls.
He cited a case highlighted by the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), where 110 new voters were registered at a single address in Ogle, East Coast Demerara. “This is a serious issue, and yet our opposition commissioners are not focused on it,” Benschop said. “It’s time for the opposition to get their priorities straight, or else cat will eat dem dinner.”
Benschop concluded by stressing the urgency of addressing these issues. “The people of Guyana need accountability, transparency, and true leadership. If the Opposition must act decisively to bring real change,” he contended.
