In what is being described by retired military officers as an alarming breach of democratic norms, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is facing backlash for its involvement in political operations tied to the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).
In a move without precedent in Guyanese history, a GDF aircraft was this morning used to transport journalists to Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast, for coverage of a major PPP campaign concert—raising serious questions about the militarisation of partisan politics. According to News Source, the GDF aircraft has been used to shuttle Government officials and Government media to Anna Regina to attend the political event.
Among the journalists on the trips was Ian Alleyne, Trinidadian social media personality, who resides in Trinidad. In a facebook post Alleyne said “For those wondering who funded my trip — I personally covered all expenses for my visit to Guyana.” However, News Source reported Alleyne was listed on the “manifest as one of its passengers to Anna Regina.”
The GDF is not a commercial entity and does not do commercial flights. The GDF is established for border security and defence.
Former senior officers of the GDF, who spoke with this publication, have sternly condemned this new development, warning that the military’s resources must not be used for commercial purposes or misused to advance any political party’s agenda.
One retired senior officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the act as “deeply troubling,” especially given Venezuela’s ongoing aggression toward Guyana and the critical need for the military to maintain neutrality, preparedness, and public trust.
“At a time when Venezuela’s threats loom large over our border, the GDF should be focused on national defense, not ferrying journalists and officials to political concerts,” the officer said.
“This misuse of state resources undermines the integrity of the Force and erodes its credibility in the eyes of the people, especially those already disillusioned by the government’s neglect.”
The officer further warned that many communities feel ignored by the Irfaan Ali administration and are only considered useful when condemning foreign threats. Using the GDF to support partisan activity, he said, could further alienate these populations and deepen national divisions.
Adding to the controversy, is Alleyne’s claimed on social media that he funded his own trip and merely posed outside the GDF aircraft. However, his explanation has done little to quell concerns, as the optics alone—of a foreign media personnel, associated with a political event in proximity to military assets—raises the specter of both political and commercial misuse of the Defence Force.
Critics argue that such actions compromise the non-partisan role the military is constitutionally bound to uphold. They are calling for an immediate investigation and a public statement from the Chief of Staff of the GDF, Omar Khan, to clarify the Force’s involvement and prevent further politicisation.
As Guyana approaches a heated electoral season, the use of the GDF for political optics not only threatens the sanctity of democratic institutions but sets a dangerous precedent for future administrations.
