Government Facing Criticism for Weak Response to U.S. Pressure on Cuban Doctors in Guyana

While other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders have pledged unwavering support for Cuba and its healthcare programme amid United States (U.S) threats to sanction countries and individuals backing Cuba, President Irfaan Ali has remained silent on the issue. Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has publicly declared that she is willing to have her U.S. visa revoked in support of Cuba’s medical professionals, urging CARICOM nations to defend the Cuban health brigade programme, emphasising the immense value it has provided to the region.

In contrast, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo is facing growing criticism for the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government lack of a firm stance against the U.S’ push to expel Cuban doctors from Guyana. The U.S. government has targeted Cuba’s overseas medical missions, including in countries like Guyana, where Cuban medical professionals have been a critical part of the healthcare system. Despite this direct challenge to Guyana’s sovereignty, Jagdeo has opted to wait for a response from CARICOM rather than make a bold public declaration of support for the Cuban doctors.

In an op-ed today, GHK Lall, a noted analyst, lambasted Jagdeo for what he perceives as a weak and indecisive reaction to the U.S. pressure. Lall, who has frequently expressed frustration with Jagdeo’s leadership style, called the Vice President’s decision to defer to CARICOM on such a critical issue a sign of political timidity. Jagdeo has consistently been the strongman of Guyana, but when it comes to standing up for Cuban doctors, he hides behind the skirts of CARICOM, Lall wrote.

Cuban doctors have long been a vital part of Guyana’s healthcare system, providing much-needed medical care, especially in underserved and rural areas. These professionals have filled critical gaps in the country’s health sector, which continues to face challenges in meeting the needs of its population. Despite their contributions, the U.S. has targeted the Cuban medical program as part of its broader strategy to challenge Cuba’s government, citing concerns over forced labor and other allegations.

Lall pointed to the example of other regional leaders who have taken a strong stance in defense of the Cuban medical mission. Trinidad and Tobago’s outgoing Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Rowley, made headlines recently for his unapologetic defiance of U.S. visa restrictions, stating that he was willing to lose his visa rather than back down from supporting Cuba.

In contrast, Jagdeo’s reluctance to take a strong position has raised questions about his leadership. Lall criticised Jagdeo for failing to stand up unequivocally for the Cuban doctors in Guyana, calling it a moment of “weakness” that underscores the Vice President’s broader lack of assertiveness in international affairs.

If Jagdeo can’t stand firm for Cuban doctors, how can he stand up to more powerful forces like Exxon? Lall asked, referencing the influence of multinational oil companies in Guyana’s booming energy sector.

The situation highlights a growing concern by Guyanese that the PPP leaders are driven by self-interest not national interest, and if standing with Cuba would hinder the self-interest of the leaders, Guyana and Guyanese will have to suffer. Moreover,  if the government fails to act decisively, it could further erode confidence in its ability to protect the nation’s interests on the international stage.