It is time for real change; let Guyana breathe again

Dear Editor,

When will Guyanese stand up to Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo and his increasingly autocratic regime, and finally condemn his disgraceful and offensive behavior? For too long, too many have enabled him to believe he is beyond reproach, a supreme authority above criticism.

Mr. Jagdeo’s remarks at his press conference on Thursday, May 15, 2025, must be scrutinized. Referring to Guyanese citizens as “stupid” is not only reprehensible, but indicative of a leader who seems either unhinged or dangerously detached from reality.

This comes at a time when our nation is facing serious crises, including continued threats from Venezuela; threats Mr. Jagdeo has failed to address meaningfully, particularly following the recent shootings of our security personnel. Meanwhile, the country is still mourning the tragic and brutal death of Adriana Younge. Yet, Mr. Jagdeo appears more interested in pushing a self-serving agenda than standing with the people.

His use of derogatory terms such as “scrapes,” “terrorists,” and others to describe patriotic Guyanese is deeply insulting. One must ask, should Venezuela act aggressively, will it not be those same “scrapes,” the people he mocks, who will rise to defend our homeland?

Equally troubling are his comments regarding the Adrianna Younge case. Rather than honoring the public’s call for justice and transparency, Mr. Jagdeo seems intent on reshaping the narrative; suggesting her death was due to “negligence” rather than possible foul play. This signals what many fear is an attempt to downplay or tell the truth, a pattern some now believe extends to the Executive itself. Like many concerned citizens, I raise my voice against the Jagdeo/Ali administration’s failure to act transparently and decisively.

Adding insult to injury, the PNCR has recently been accused of “practicing obeah.” As a proud member of this noble party, I categorically reject such baseless claims. I have never practiced nor witnessed such activities within the PNCR. These accusations are nothing more than a desperate distraction from the real issues plaguing our country.

Mr. Jagdeo’s rhetoric and behaviour render him unfit for any public office. We, the people of Guyana, must remember the words of our National Anthem, that ours is a land of freedom, and stand against those who erode that very freedom. Article 146 of our Constitution protects our right to free expression. Let us exercise that right with courage and purpose.

It is time for real change. Let Guyana breathe again.

Yours truly,
Annette Ferguson, MP